It is vitally important that nurses are aware of other cultures as they collaborate with a diverse work force as well as patients and their families. Assume you are Masaya's preceptor. What leadership skills should you model to assist Masaya and your fellow coworkers with his acceptance into the work-group/team based on what you discover by watching the video (link is below).

video summary:

Alicia, the nurse leader, is wearing a lab coat. She is an African American. Masaya is wearing street clothes and is a Filipino who is approximately 25 years old. They are sitting in the nurse leader's office at the hospital, with Alicia behind her desk.

Audio

Nurse leader: Thank you so much for coming in today for this discussion. It is so hectic when you are on duty; I appreciate you meeting with me on your day off when we can have a better chance to talk. Be sure to clock in as you will be paid for this time.

I would like to discuss how you are adapting to working in the United States in general, and on our unit specifically. How's it going?
Staff nurse: Thank you, ma'am, for asking me to come in. I don't mind at all. I usually clean my apartment on my day off. It's so small, it only takes about 10 minutes. (both laugh)

Hmm... how do I think it is going? Now, don't get me wrong. I love my job and my preceptor is great, but it has been a challenge. For example, I noticed the other day that a few of the nurses rolled their eyes when I began report with my patients' sur names instead of their first names. This is the way I was taught to do it in the Philippines, but I guess it sounds weird here.

And my preceptor told me that when I respond to everyone by saying "Yes, ma'am," or "Yes, sir," it doesn't come across as respectful, but instead makes them feel old.

I brought in some lumpia I made using my mom's recipe, and put it in the lounge. No one even mentioned it, let alone thank me.

And some of the nurses are trying to fix me up on dates. They know I'm married and my wife is in nursing school back in Manila. I'm over here earning money to pay for her schooling, but they think we've split up because we aren't living together.

Nurse leader: Thank you for being so candid with me. Is there anything else you wish to share?

Staff nurse: That's all that comes to mind. I'm trying to fit in, but it's been rough at times. Moving to the U.S. has been a lot harder than I thought it would be. But I'm determined to keep this job. It has been a great opportunity.

Nurse leader: First of all, I want you to know that I've seen great progress since you started working here. Let me think about what you've said, and see how I may be able to help you and the staff see things from each other's perspective.

Enjoy the rest of your day off.