Cultural and religious aspects of death and dying

At a glance

• Ask, don't assume. "Is there anything about your culture, beliefs or family we should know to care for you well?" Belief and practice vary within every culture and religion.
• Cultural safety is judged by the patient, not the clinician (Ahpra 2020 definition; Medical Council of New Zealand 2019). It means reflecting on your own assumptions and power, not memorising lists.
• Use a professional interpreter for serious news. TIS National provides free interpreting to private medical practitioners for Medicare-eligible patients. In public hospitals, use the state or territory health care interpreter service.