Purnell Model for Cultural Competence: Analysis

Introduction to the Purnell Model

The Purnell Model for Cultural Competence is defined by 12 domains that cover the organization and structure of cultural identity, both primary and secondary. This model describes cultural disparities in values, beliefs, and practices, highlighting an individual's cultural heritage. Each domain impacts individuals, communities, and families, representing global society. The first domain signifies global society as a whole, the second represents the community, and the third focuses on the family. The inner surface of the rim stands for the individual. No domain stands alone; all are interconnected. At the center of the model is an empty space, symbolizing the unknown significant aspects of a cultural group.

Application of the Model

The model sets forth primary and secondary data to promote acceptance in multicultural and multinational workplaces. It aids in individual interactions and is utilized in long-term care facilities with cultural diversity. Additionally, it is used in case management and managed care programs. The model emphasizes social structures with historical antecedents and cultural traditions, managed by policy, procedures, and critical thinking.

Exploring the 12 Domains

Each of the 12 domains focuses on various aspects of individual culture and structure. The overview reviews cultural heritage, economic policies, educational status, and occupations. Communication is highlighted through different dialects and language use, such as the "white and green language" mentioned by a recent guest speaker. Understanding tone and voice modulation is crucial in verbal communication, while nonverbal cues like body language also play a significant role. Folding arms and frowning, for instance, might signal anger or unapproachability.

Family roles and organization logically develop gender roles within households. Workplace dynamics often reflect these roles, along with ethnic communication and individuality. Bicultural ecology interfaces ethnic and racial origins with physical attributes like skin color, body stature, genetics, and hereditary factors. It also examines topographic diseases and drug effects on the body.

Risk Behaviors and Health Practices

High-risk behaviors include tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drug use, along with workplace safety messages and sexual preferences. Employers often enforce no-tolerance policies for such behaviors. Nutritional values influence food choices, portion sizes, and health impacts. Pregnancy and childbearing practices reflect cultural beliefs about fertility, birth control, and postnatal care. Death rituals explore cultural perceptions of death and bereavement behaviors.

Spirituality addresses religious beliefs, prayer usage, and life attitudes. Health care beliefs vary between traditional and biomedical approaches, with individuals taking responsibility for their own medication and mental health. The role of the health care practitioner reflects perceptions of traditional and biomedical health providers.

Conclusion

Overall, these domains foster mutual understanding and respect for cultural differences among employees, employers, and coworkers. It is crucial not to judge individuals based on appearance or body language, as these may not accurately convey intentions. Cultural beliefs around pregnancy and gender identity should be respected and understood. Employers typically enforce strict policies on substance use and sexual behavior. Cultural food choices and religious practices, including prayer and rituals, prepare individuals for life and death transitions. Health care practices focus on preventive treatments and pain management, while beliefs about mental illness and organ donation vary. These strategies are essential for developing cultural competence and understanding, as supported by references such as Purnell (2002) and Leininger (1995).

References:

• Purnell, L. (2002). The Purnell Model for Cultural Competence. Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 13(3), 193-196.
• Leininger, M. M. (1995). Transcultural Nursing: Concepts, Theories, Research & Practice. McGraw-Hill.