Sunday, June 24, 2018

Welcoming Families from Around the World





Hypothetical situation: 

I am working in a hospital and a guest family from Malwa, Punjab (India) is scheduled to come in.  I would prepare for their arrival, but finding out: 
- what language(s) they spoke
- any customs that would be deemed as disrespectful to them
- the reason they are coming 
- if there is a dominant person within the family 
- foods they eat to direct them to restaurants within the area

I would have to found out the languages they speak to see if I would need an interpreter.  It is very hard to feel comfortable with anyone from a hospital when they don't speak your language.  I wouldn't want to offend them, so finding out any details that the staff knows about them including religion, customs, and lifestyle would be beneficial.  I would also need to know the reason for them coming.  There are many reasons why a person would need to visit a hospital, so I would not want to assume.  I would want to find out if there is a dominant person within the family.  I would not want to disregard the decision maker, or disrespect him or her.  Charleston is full of restaurants, if they have dietary restrictions I would want to know.  Having knowledge of the food and area can make a person a little more comfortable, when visiting or looking for somewhere to stay.  

Making people comfortable is a privilege.  I would want to help them as much as I could.  This would be a great way to start.  



No comments:

Post a Comment