The Pharmacist Assignment

Writing: The Pharmacist
Assignment Content:

Please use the terminology and references from this week’s chapter 3 to answer the following question in about 250 words,

An African American woman approaches a pharmacist at the local drugstore near the hospital where she was given a prescription for chest congestion. She asks the pharmacist for oils in the store with camphor so she can rub it on her chest to help with her congestion. The pharmacist immediately tells her that to do so would be ridiculous and that she should not proceed with such a remedy but only use the medicine per her prescription.

Did the pharmacist handle this communication correctly? Why or why not?

What would you have done if you were the pharmacist?

Course Materials: Rose, Patti (2013) Cultural Competency for the Health Professional. Jones and Bartlett

APA Format

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The interaction between the African American woman and the pharmacist raises questions about cultural competency in healthcare. The pharmacist’s response to the woman’s request for oils with camphor was insensitive and demonstrated a lack of understanding of the patient’s cultural beliefs and practices regarding health and wellness. The pharmacist’s dismissal of the woman’s request without further explanation may have left the patient feeling disrespected and unheard.

Cultural competency is a critical component of providing quality healthcare services. It involves understanding and respecting the cultural beliefs, practices, and values of patients from different backgrounds. It is essential for healthcare providers to approach patients with an open mind and without prejudice, listen carefully to their concerns, and work collaboratively to develop treatment plans that align with their beliefs and practices.

If I were the pharmacist in this situation, I would have first acknowledged the patient’s request and asked her to explain her reasons for using camphor oil. I would have then explained to her the potential risks and benefits of using the oil and how it may interact with her prescribed medication. If the patient still insisted on using the oil, I would have recommended a consultation with her healthcare provider to discuss alternative treatment options that align with her cultural beliefs.

In conclusion, healthcare providers must strive to become culturally competent to provide quality healthcare services to patients from diverse backgrounds. The pharmacist in this scenario failed to demonstrate cultural competency in their interaction with the patient, which may have left the patient feeling disrespected and unheard. Taking the time to understand and respect patients’ cultural beliefs and practices is essential for building trust and rapport with patients and providing effective healthcare services.