Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

In which ethnicity is the paternal grandmother often the primary healthcare decision maker?

1. African Americans

2. Hispanics

3. Native Americans

4. Asians

The correct answer is: Hispanics

The correct answer highlights a cultural dynamic particularly associated with Hispanic communities, where the maternal or paternal grandmother often plays a significant role in family decision-making, especially concerning healthcare. In many Hispanic families, elder relatives, particularly grandmothers, hold a revered position, and their involvement in healthcare decisions can reflect deep-seated cultural values of familial respect and care. This cultural significance stems from a strong sense of family and community, where decisions may not only impact the individuals but the family unit as a whole. In contrast, other ethnic groups may have different structures or roles in family decision-making. For example, in many African American families, decision-making may be more distributed among adult family members, while in Native American cultures, tribal customs and collective decision-making processes may take precedence. Asian cultures may also place high value on elder input, but the specific dynamics can vary widely between different Asian ethnicities. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for providing culturally competent care and effectively collaborating with families in healthcare settings.