To provide culturally safe care, PSWs should do which of the following?

• A. Apply one-size-fits-all care
• B. Assume patient preferences
• C. Ask about preferences and adapt care to cultural needs
• D. Ignore cultural differences

Answer: (C)

Culturally safe care means recognizing that each person has unique beliefs, values, and practices that influence how they want to receive support. The best approach is to ask the person about their preferences and then adapt care to fit their cultural needs. This shows respect, supports autonomy, and builds trust, while avoiding the imposition of your own routines or assumptions about what a patient wants. For example, you might check language needs, dietary restrictions, religious or spiritual practices, modesty concerns, and who should be involved in care. By inviting this information and adjusting care accordingly, you create a safer, more person-centered experience. In contrast, assuming preferences, applying a single approach to everyone, or ignoring cultural differences can lead to discomfort or harm and undermines safety.