Module 5 Discussion
Discussion 5
After studying Module 5: Lecture Materials & Resources, discuss the following:
Jay and Sue Kim, ages 29 and 26 years and married for 2 years, immigrated from South Korea and settled in Los Angeles. They have lived in a small one-bedroom apartment since their arrival. Both graduated from the same Korean university with baccalaureate degrees in English literature. They have one child, Joseph, age 1 year. When they arrived in the United States, Jay was unable to find a job because of his poor proficiency in English, despite his major in English literature. He eventually obtained a job with a moving company through a church friend. Sue is not working because of their son. Although the Kim’s did not attend a church before immigration, they are now regularly attending a Korean Protestant church in their neighborhood.
Sue is pregnant again, determined by a home pregnancy kit, with their second child and concerned about the medical costs. They did not use any contraceptives because she was breastfeeding. Because of financial limitations, Sue did not initially have prenatal care with her first pregnancy. However, she did keep up with the Korean traditional prenatal practice, tae-kyo. Eventually, she received help from her church and delivered a healthy son. She is not sure whether she can get financial help from her church again but is confident that her second child will be healthy if she follows the Korean traditional prenatal practices.
Jay is concerned about job security because he recently heard from colleagues that the moving company might soon go bankrupt. Although Jay has not been satisfied with his current job (he thinks that he is overqualified), this news is still a cause for concern. Moreover, Sue’s recent pregnancy has made Jay more stressed, and he has started drinking alcohol. Joseph cannot stand up by himself and still wants to be breastfed. Although Sue has tried to give foods such as oranges, apples, steamed rice, and milk (because she is now pregnant), Joseph refuses to eat them and cries for breastfeeding. Joseph’s weight is low-normal for same-age babies.
Describe the Korean cultural practice tae-kyo. Is this practice congruent with allopathic recommendations for prenatal care?
How do food choices among Koreans differ with pregnancy and postpartum?
Describe cultural attitudes toward drinking among Koreans.
Identify two or three culturally congruent strategies a healthcare provider might use to address Jay’s drinking.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In this module, we will discuss the cultural practices and beliefs of a Korean immigrant couple, Jay and Sue Kim, and examine the healthcare challenges they are currently facing. We will explore the cultural practice of tae-kyo, the impact of pregnancy on food choices among Koreans, cultural attitudes toward drinking, and culturally congruent strategies a healthcare provider can use to address Jay’s drinking.
Discussion 5:
1. Describe the Korean cultural practice tae-kyo. Is this practice congruent with allopathic recommendations for prenatal care?
Tae-kyo is a traditional Korean prenatal practice where pregnant women spend the month before childbirth in their parents’ home or in a birthing center. During this time, the mother receives assistance with household chores, rest, and nutritious meals prepared according to traditional beliefs. Additionally, the woman is encouraged to engage in activities that are thought to promote a healthy pregnancy, such as taking herbal baths and receiving massages.
While tae-kyo emphasizes rest and proper nutrition, it differs from allopathic recommendations for prenatal care. Allopathic recommendations usually involve regular prenatal check-ups, monitoring the mother’s health, and providing evidence-based medical interventions as needed. While tae-kyo may have cultural value and could provide emotional support, it is important for the healthcare provider to educate Sue about the importance of receiving proper prenatal care according to allopathic recommendations to ensure the best possible health outcomes for her and her baby.
2. How do food choices among Koreans differ with pregnancy and postpartum?
In Korean culture, food choices during pregnancy and postpartum are influenced by the belief in yin and yang principles. Certain foods are considered hot (yang) or cold (yin), and it is believed that maintaining balance between these elements is essential for the health of both the mother and the baby.
During pregnancy, Korean women may avoid cold or raw foods and focus on hot and nourishing foods. They often consume soups, stews, and rice dishes with a variety of ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and vegetables. Traditional health drinks like ginger tea and herbal tonics are also commonly consumed.
After childbirth, it is believed that the mother’s body is in a state of imbalance and needs to be restored. Hot and nourishing foods such as seaweed soup, chicken, and beef dishes are often consumed to aid in recovery. Additionally, postpartum women are encouraged to consume galactagogues, such as seaweed, dried fish, and fermented soybean products, to promote milk production.
3. Describe cultural attitudes toward drinking among Koreans.
In Korean culture, drinking holds significant social and cultural importance. Alcohol consumption is often seen as a way to promote bonding, build relationships, and show hospitality. Koreans may engage in drinking during various social gatherings, business meetings, and celebrations.
However, it is important to note that not all Koreans consume alcohol, and there are those who choose to abstain for personal or religious reasons. The level of acceptance and attitudes toward alcohol can vary among individuals and may be influenced by factors such as age, gender, and social status.
4. Identify two or three culturally congruent strategies a healthcare provider might use to address Jay’s drinking.
a) Cultural Sensitivity: The healthcare provider should approach the issue of Jay’s drinking with cultural sensitivity, acknowledging the cultural significance of alcohol in Korean society. By displaying an understanding of his cultural background, the provider can establish rapport and create a supportive environment for open communication.
b) Education: The provider can educate Jay about the potential health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, particularly during pregnancy. Providing factual information about the impact of alcohol on fetal development and the potential consequences for the overall well-being of the family can help Jay make informed decisions.
c) Referral to Support Services: The healthcare provider can refer Jay to support services, such as counseling or community-based programs, that specifically address alcohol-related issues. These services may offer culturally tailored interventions and provide Jay with the necessary resources and tools to address his drinking habits effectively.
By implementing culturally congruent strategies, the healthcare provider can effectively engage with Jay, raise awareness about the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption, and support his journey towards a healthier lifestyle.
