Date of Defense

10-13-2023

Date of Graduation

4-2024

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Maria Roche-Dean

Second Advisor

Angela Groves

Keywords

Burmese, pain management, cultural competence, advocacy, lived experience

Abstract

Introduction

Pain is a universal, yet not well-understood phenomenon. The literature often lumps Asian subgroups together due to low representation in research. Ethnic minority patients, including those who identify as Asian, have a lower likelihood of receiving correct pain management (PM). The reasoning behind this trend varies. This study aims to understand the experiences of PM in Burmese participants’ and further strengthen knowledge around PM disparities among Asians.

Methodology

Utilizing Collaizzi’s descriptive phenomenology and Purnell’s cultural competence model, four English-speaking Burmese participants were interviewed. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, de-identified, and stored in a password-protected file.

Results

Themes included the need to advocate for oneself due to healthcare miscommunication, how one’s culture guides decisions, and the decline in health after coming to America.

Discussion

Inadequate PM was caused by both patient and provider-related factors. Increased nurse-patient advocacy, patient health literacy, and cultural awareness can enhance holistic PM within an ethnic community.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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