Dear Editor,
The article, "The ABCD approach for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia," published in the August 2023 issue of Nursing2023 truly addresses the concept of nursing identity. The author's focus on the nurse as an empathetic yet methodical and logical caregiver results in a more stable patient. The use of the ABCD approach in de-escalating a disturbing situation reflects the nursing process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The immediate use of drugs to calm an agitated patient becomes unnecessary.
Teaching and involving other caregivers including family members in understanding the patient truly highlights the nursing identity.
-Josefina I. Alejandro, DNP, RN retired
Gulfport, Miss.
Dear editors,
I am writing in response to an article, "Practicing cultural humility toward Black and Brown communities in the ED" by Aishia Wall, BSN, RN, published in the April 2023 issue of Nursing 2023.
As I read the article, I was reminded of my own training 37 years ago. We were taught to have empathy for patients and families rather than sympathy. We were taught to put ourselves in the other person's place and see the situation from the perspective of the patient and their family.
We learned that different cultures, ethnicities, religions, and individuals may have different views on health and wellness. Patients may have different approaches, opinions, and practices that affect their healthcare journey. We were taught to ask open-ended questions to gain insight into those beliefs.
At that time, this approach was called individualized care. In the April article, the author refers to it as cultural humility. I would say that everything old is new again.
Sincerely,
-Sarah Collins, BSN, RN, CMSRN
Mesa, AZ