Question

Children A 4-month-old infant with a history of an atrial septal defect (congenital heart condition caused by close intermarriage) and apneic episodes is about to be discharged from the hospital. The pediatrician recommends discharging with a home apnea monitor. The family identifies as Amish, however, and ethno-religious beliefs prohibit the use of electricity in Amish households.

1. What cultural consideration must the nurse keep in mind when caring for those in the Amish community?

2. How does the nurse ensure that the infant is discharged into a safe home environment without the use of electricity?

Answer 1

1. The nurse has to keep in mind that people belong to Amish community are living a different lifestyle compared to others . They like to live in simple ways , without using technology and they still follows all the old traditional methods in their daily living. So the nurse has to be careful while caring the child , she should identify whether tha patient belongs to older Amish or newer Amish. The older Amish people are very much sticker with their old beliefs and they won't agree to use any kind of technology even to save their life . Where as newer Amish people are started using some of the technologies and modern lifestyle practices like any other person. So nurse should first learn about the culture of Amish community and whenever she explain things to the parents give the cultural concern and speak to them. She should not make them repeat many times that their culture is so and so which may make it irritating for the family.

2. The nurse has to explain about the chances of sleep apnea episodes to the parents and the whole family. Also she should teach them what all precautions can be taken to prevent sleep apnea. May be the medications can be given also explain them about home remedies like some stimulants or caffeinated products in mild forms . Also ensure that the parents will be alert while the baby is sleeping and a very frequent follow up would be beneficial. Teach the parents regarding the assessment of sleep apnea , how to identify it and the adverse effect if it happens and unnoticed . And there are home apnea monitors which can be used without electricity , that runs with battery and which can be returned to the hospital and get the results . If she can convince the parents that could be helpful (if possible).