Perceptions of Unmet Cultural Needs: Punjabi Families' Challenge to Maintain Culture and Identity within Pediatric Medical Settings

The hospitalization of a child is a very tumultuous time for the caregiver. Going through the entire process of hospitalization from being admitted, to the diagnostic process, can be overwhelming to understand for caregivers. For caregivers who are not familiar with the American medical system, this process is even more unsettling and stressful. The purpose of this study was to examine culturally competent practices within the pediatric medical setting from the perspective of Punjabi families. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews of four caregivers who experienced the hospitalization of their child. Results of this study indicated that cultural competence was represented in a myriad of instances centering around staff interactions with the families. Additionally, this study demonstrates the importance of culturally competent practices and the effects it has on the caregiver’s ability to cope with the hospitalization of their child. Furthermore, this analysis of culturally competent care explains the importance of these practices to be implemented by child life specialists as it helps to establish the foundation of rapport with children and their families.