East Indian American population is 2.8 million, 2010 with 51% of them being Hindu. They originated from South Asia, (Bangladesh and Pakistan). Nurses need to understand and appreciate the Hindu practices to provide optimal care for such patients. Most East Indian patients understand English as they are highly educated except for a few older patients. As a nurse, you need to consult with the patient on the language they understand best, where possible get an interpreter. It is important to explain any medical procedures to the patients before performing them. Hindus have close extended family relationships hence medical decisions are made collectively. Constant updates and consultations with the family members are advisable while respecting the patients’ autonomy to make decisions. Hindus remove their shoes as they visit the patient therefore, the nurse needs to ensure the patient’s room is always neat and disinfected.
Most East Indian Hindu Americans patients are vegetarians; it is crucial to consult with the patient and communicate with the food and nutrition department on their dietary practices. Married women wear special jewelry to signify their marriage; the nurse needs to inform the patient before removing them and properly handle the valuable. Men also wear sacred threads that the nurse can remove whenever it’s necessary with the patient consent. Hindu patients keep pictures, books, and prayer beads; the nurse should avoid touching these items to maintain their privacy. Finally, Hindus practice cremation within 24 hours when a family member dies. It is crucial to inform the family of their loved one immediately.