Culture is applicable to groups of whites, such as Italians or Irish, as well as to racial and ethnic minorities.
During each interaction with clients, be sensitive to the cultural implications of the encounter.
Ask questions to stimulate learning about how clients identify and express their cultural background.
There is much diversity within groups and not all persons of the same racial or ethnic group may share the same culture. Assess both cultural group patterns as well as individual variations within a cultural group to avoid stereotyping.
When misunderstandings arise, acknowledge the problem and take responsibility for your own error.
Be knowledgeable about your own cultural heritage, biases, beliefs, val¬ues, and practices when providing care.
Avoid making assumptions about non-verbal cues when interacting with clients from unfamiliar cultures.
Use a variety of sources, including clients, to develop cultural knowledge. Developing cultural competence is an ongoing journey and an evolving process.