Question

NS is a 72-year-old woman who emigrated to the U.S. from Egypt 5 years ago. She is a widow, has five grown children, and follows Islamic doctrine. She lives with her oldest daughter; and a younger daughter and three sons live near her home. NS is currently hospitalized due to a recent cerebral vascular accident. She has left-sided paralysis. The attending physician tells the patient she should go to a rehabilitation unit for 3 weeks for physical therapy. The oldest daughter is present for the physician's visit. Both the patient and her daughter appear anxious but do not ask the physician any questions.

What cultural factors could explain the apparent anxiety?

Answer 1

Cultural factors like healthcare system differences, the significance of family presence, religious doctrine adherence, and possible language barriers may contribute to the anxiety of NS, a 72-year-old Egyptian woman facing rehabilitation after a stroke.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cultural factors that could explain the apparent anxiety of NS, a 72-year-old Egyptian woman hospitalized after a cerebral vascular accident, include the potential challenges of navigating the healthcare system in the U.S., which may be different from what she was accustomed to in Egypt. Additionally, the strong family unit as observed in many Islamic and Middle Eastern cultures may lead to feelings of anxiety as she is away from her family while in rehabilitation. Also, her adherence to Islamic doctrine may bring about further concern regarding the type of care she will receive and if it aligns with her religious beliefs. Lastly, language barriers, if present, could contribute to the anxiety of not fully understanding the physician's advice or the details of her treatment plan.