Teaching Child Health-Care Concepts to Khmer Mothers

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Abstract
Since 1979, an influx of Khmer women refugees have settled in the United States. Because of the cultural differences, many are unprepared for changing roles demanded by relocation. To assist in the cultural transition, many United States volunteer agencies have created educational programs to mitigate their problems. One such program was taught, in part, by nurse practitioners. The purposes of this article are to (a) describe the process of teaching Western child health-care concepts and health education materials to Khmer mothers, (b) discuss the problems encountered in the class material and the teaching process, and (c) make recommendations to assist nurses who work with culturally diverse groups of clients. There were a total of four health-related classes, 2 to 3 hr in length. An interpreter was used to translate the class material. The teaching methods and aids used included illustrations, vocabulary flash cards, dolls, medication and product samples, worksheets, student participation and posttest evaluations. The results of a posttest revealed that Khmer mothers developed a basic understanding and acceptance of Western health-care practices. The problems encountered in teaching these classes as well as recommendations for future classes are presented.

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