Cultural Competency in Nursing: A Reflection on Indigenous Healthcare

This essay provides a reflection on the healthcare disparities experienced by Indigenous Australians, highlighting the significant gap in life expectancy compared to non-Indigenous Australians. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the social determinants of health, including education, employment, sanitation, and access to culturally competent healthcare services. The reflection delves into the historical context of colonization and its lasting impact on Indigenous communities, focusing on the destruction of cultural identity, forced removal from land, and the introduction of diseases and harmful policies. It advocates for culturally safe nursing practices that respect Indigenous values, traditions, and preferences, promoting self-determination and improving the overall quality of life for Indigenous Australians. The author draws parallels with their own cultural background to demonstrate empathy and understanding, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals to be culturally aware, sensitive, and unbiased in their approach to care.