African American Nursing Case Study

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Introduction The rate of depression in older African Americans has been found to be similar to their white counterparts. However, they are less likely to be identified and treated with antidepressant drugs. Some factors may include mistrust of health-care professionals, poor recognition of depression by primary care doctors, poor access to mental healthcare, and the cultural or spiritual beliefs of the older African American. The focus will be primarily on the cultural or spiritual beliefs and the resilience of the older African American and nursing implications when addressing depression in these individuals. Key Principles and Nursing Implications Generally, African American culture sees health being harmonious with nature and illness is seen as caused by demons or bad spirits (Purnell, L.D. & Paulanka, B., 2009, p. 33). According to Wittink, Joo, Lewis & Barg (2009), “African American older…show more content…
Some will consult the Farmers’ Almanac to see when it is a good time to do medical procedures (Purnell, L.D. & Paulanka, B., 2009, p. 33). Nurses should determine the importance of the meaning of the church to the older African American and seek intervention from clergy. According to Wittink, Joo, Lewis & Barg, 2009, older African Americans reported that “speaking with a pastor or religious leader would help with the symptoms of depression. The pastor was talked about as a member of their community who is trustworthy, caring and ensures confidentiality.” (p. 405). Additionally, nurses should support and allow individuals to pray when they wish to do so (Purnell, L.D. & Paulanka, B., 2009, p. 32). In the Wittink, Joo, Lewis & Barg 2009 study, “Participants described prayer as an active strategy of seeking guidance and of helping oneself” (p.
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