Avoid making assumptions or stereotyping.

Be open to others' views.

Be aware of your own cultural beliefs and biases.

Recognize that cultures vary in health beliefs and practices.

Show respect for beliefs that are different from your own.

Ask the patient if there is anything you need to know about their health beliefs. or cultural practices that would affect how you should provide care.

Determine whether there are any dietary restrictions or preferences or cultural and or religious practices and preferences that the staff will need to know in order to provide respectful care.

Ask questions to gain insight into the patient's understanding of the illness and treatment.

Determine whether there is someone else in the family who needs to be involved in health care decisions.

Realize that family integration is more important than individual rights in some cultures.

Be willing to compromise about treatment goals or modalities when necessary in collaboration with the patient, family and the health care team.