The Giger and Davidhizar Transcultural Assessment Model is a framework for evaluating and addressing the cultural differences and needs of patients in a healthcare setting. Developed by Dr. Mary Giger and Dr. Roy Davidhizar in the 1980s, the model emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural beliefs, values, and practices of patients in order to provide the most effective and appropriate care.
At the heart of the Giger and Davidhizar model is the concept of transcultural nursing, which recognizes that culture plays a vital role in the healthcare experience and outcomes of patients. This approach seeks to bridge the cultural gap between patients and healthcare providers by providing a framework for assessing and addressing the cultural needs of patients.
The Giger and Davidhizar model consists of six components: cultural assessment, cultural knowledge, cultural skill, cultural encounter, cultural desire, and cultural care. These components work together to provide a comprehensive approach to caring for patients from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The cultural assessment component involves collecting information about the patient's cultural background and healthcare beliefs and practices. This includes gathering data on the patient's language, religious and spiritual beliefs, family structure, and health-related beliefs and practices.
The cultural knowledge component involves understanding and being familiar with the patient's cultural beliefs, values, and practices. This includes learning about the patient's cultural health-related beliefs and practices, as well as any cultural barriers or challenges that may affect their healthcare experience.
The cultural skill component involves the ability to communicate effectively with patients from different cultural backgrounds. This includes the ability to use interpreters and other resources to ensure that patients understand their care and treatment options, as well as the ability to respect and honor the patient's cultural beliefs and practices.
The cultural encounter component involves the interaction between the healthcare provider and the patient. This includes the physical environment of the healthcare setting, as well as the verbal and nonverbal communication between the provider and the patient.
The cultural desire component involves the patient's desire for culturally appropriate care. This includes the patient's desire to have their cultural beliefs and practices respected and honored, as well as their desire to have access to culturally appropriate resources and support.
Finally, the cultural care component involves the actual care provided to the patient. This includes the use of culturally appropriate interventions and treatments, as well as the incorporation of the patient's cultural beliefs and practices into their care plan.
Overall, the Giger and Davidhizar Transcultural Assessment Model is a valuable tool for healthcare providers seeking to provide culturally competent care to patients from diverse backgrounds. By following this model, providers can better understand and address the cultural needs of their patients, leading to improved healthcare outcomes and a more positive healthcare experience for all involved.