Question

An American nurse on the telephone uses a finger to signal "come here" to a nurse from Asia. The Asian nurse misunderstands the communication and becomes upset. Why did this nurse from Asia respond negatively?

a) Different cultural gestures
b) Mispronunciation of words
c) Lack of medical knowledge
d) Lack of interest

Answer 1

The Asian nurse responded negatively due to the cultural difference in interpreting the "come here" gesture, perceiving it as potentially disrespectful instead of the benign intent typically understood in American culture.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Asian nurse responded negatively to the American nurse's "come here" gesture because of cultural differences in nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, and body language, which can vary significantly from one culture to another. In some Asian cultures, a gesture similar to the "come here" signal used in America can be considered disrespectful or rude. As a result, the Asian nurse may have misinterpreted the American nurse's well-intentioned gesture as being off-putting or commanding in an inappropriate manner.