Iraq by

Health Beliefs or Traditional Medicines

sandratreesasaji — 2024-12-05 14:04:34 UTC

Traditional medicine has a special role in health care in Iraq especially in the countryside and in deserted areas. Natural remedies such as cumin, tea, butter, and henna are used frequently to treat minor illnesses. Abdominal issues, stomach aches, and jaundice are treated by using plants such as Teucrium. Traditional health practices such as Hijama (cupping therapy) play a special role in maintaining wellness. This practice is rooted in Islamic beliefs and involves creating small skin incisions to draw out bad blood which is taught to relieve pain, detoxify and restore balance. It is mostly common in treating joint pain and headaches.

Reference: Huang, J. and Refugees, K. (2011). Traditional Medicine of Karen, Nepali, and Iraqi Refugees. https://med.virginia.edu/family-medicine/wp-content/uploads/sites/285/2017/01/Joseph-Huang-Traditional-Medicine-Karen-Nepali-Iraqi_Web.pdf.

Education as a social Determinant of Health

sandratreesasaji — 2024-12-05 14:09:17 UTC

A key socio-determinant of health identified by the WHO is Education which significantly impacts Iraqi refugees' health outcomes. Better health literacy is linked to higher education levels, which helps refugees make more informed decisions about their health and more successfully navigate the healthcare system. Employment opportunities are also influenced by education and these in turn impact living conditions and health care. Language barriers and interrupted education due to conflict can hinder Iraqi refugees' ability to fully benefit from health services in Australia. Addressing these educational gaps is crucial for improving their overall health and well-being.

Reference: World Health Organization (2022). Refugee and migrant health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/refugee-and-migrant-health.

Culture of Iraq

sandratreesasaji — 2024-12-05 14:11:13 UTC

Iraqi culture is rich and diverse, influenced by its ancient history and various ethnic groups. Arabic is the primary language with Kurdish also widely spoken. The predominant religion is Islam with both Sunni and Shia Muslims present. Iraqi cuisine includes dishes like kebabs, biriyani, and dolma (stuffed grape leaves). Although Western-style clothing is common in urban areas, traditional attire for men and women includes the dishdasha (long rob) and Abaya respectively. Iraqi culture places a high value on music with classic instruments like the oud and traditional styles like maqam being popular to this day.

Reference: Wikipedia. (2020). Culture of Iraq. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Iraq.

Common Health Issues Among Iraq Refugees

sandratreesasaji — 2024-12-05 14:11:43 UTC

Iraqi refugees after arriving in Australia, often present with mental health issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is a successful treatment option for PTSD according to the Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. This method aids patients in processing stressful events and creating coping mechanisms. Considering the potential stigma around mental health in Iraqi culture, it's crucial to deliver this treatment in a culturally sensitive manner. To guarantee effective communication during therapy sessions, interpreters may be necessary.

Reference: Taylor, E.M., Yanni, E.A., Pezzi, C., Guterbock, M., Rothney, E., Harton, E., Montour, J., Elias, C. and Burke, H. (2014). Physical and mental health status of Iraqi refugees resettled in the United States. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, [online] 16(6), pp.1130–1137. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-013-9893-6.

Reflection on Cultural Competency

sandratreesasaji — 2024-12-05 14:12:00 UTC

Reflecting on Domain 7: Professional from the culturally responsive clinical practice framework, I want to use my competency 12.1: " Engage in ongoing critical reflection of own cultural values, beliefs, attitudes, and practices and their influence on interactions with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. As a future nurse, I do recognize and understand how critical it is to constantly assess my own cultural biases and how they could impact patient care in my role as a nurse. I should find areas for growth and make sure I deliver culturally sensitive care that respects each patient's unique beliefs and practices.

Reference: Culturally responsive clinical practice framework (2018).