Cultural awareness in nursing is critical to understanding patient beliefs, values, thoughts and behaviors to provide high-quality, effective care. There are twelve standards of practice, however the only standards discussed were two, three, six and eight. The standards serve as a guide for nurses to provide care, based on global culture and issues. The second standard focuses on critical reflection. Critical reflection is of great importance as it involves understanding self-awareness of beliefs, values and cultural heritage. The third standard focuses on knowledge of cultures. Knowledge that focuses on nurses gaining an understanding of the practices, values, traditions, and family systems of culturally diverse populations to achieve better health and well-being outcomes. The sixth standard focuses on patient advocacy and empowerment. Advocating for a patient gives nurses the opportunity to advocate for the patient's cultural practices and beliefs in all aspects of health care. The last standard discussed was the eighth standard which focuses on education and training in culturally competent care. Education about other cultures prepares nurses to provide and promote culturally congruent care. By having a basic understanding of different cultures and how global issues influence care, nurses are able to provide services safely
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