Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following supports health outcomes by enabling cultural practices?

1. Accommodation

2. Brokering

3. Imposition

4. Awareness

The correct answer is: Accommodation

Accommodation is the correct choice because it involves adjusting services, practices, or environments in a way that respects and incorporates the cultural beliefs and practices of individuals or communities. By making these adjustments, healthcare providers can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for patients, which enhances their comfort and willingness to engage in health-promoting behaviors. This fosters better health outcomes as individuals are more likely to adhere to recommendations when they feel that their cultural practices are understood and valued. In contrast, brokering typically refers to the act of facilitating communication or negotiation between parties, which, while important in healthcare, does not directly enable cultural practices. Imposition involves enforcing standard practices without regard for cultural differences, which can alienate patients and adversely affect their engagement with healthcare services. Awareness is about recognizing cultural diversity, but it does not in itself lead to the adaptation of practices that support health outcomes through cultural competence. Each of these concepts has its role, but accommodation specifically focuses on harmonizing healthcare practices with cultural needs, thereby promoting better health outcomes.