Cultural Humility- Experience of a Nutrition Student at an African Clinic

Abstract

Abstract Background Demonstrating cultural humility is crucial in healthcare as it helps build bridges between healthcare practitioners and patients receiving care to understand their needs and tailor interventions. International placements are one of the best ways to enhance cultural humility.Methods This study investigated the externship experience of one Canadian undergraduate nutrition student at a North African clinic, utilizing Narrative Inquiry. Data were collected using the Narrative Reflective Process, specifically using drawings, proverbs, and mementos to share the participant’s story of experience. The reflection process was conducted in Ontario, Canada post arrival from the externship experience that took place one summer during the COVID-19 pandemic.Results The findings depict how student gained a deeper understanding of cultural humility, became aware of their own biases, and was able to comprehend and discover different perspectives to care delivery. Furthermore, diversifying their interactions and being immersed in different cultural situations opened their perspectives and enhanced their appreciation, nurturing their personal and professional development. The two main themes that emerged were self-reflection and care delivery constituents.Conclusion The study emphasizes the benefits of international placements for future development of healthcare practitioners, particularly in cultural humility. The student was able to gain a deeper insight into what cultural humility is in a relatively short period of time through this transcultural collaboration.