Case Study
Consider the following case study: Santiago is a 41-year-old man who has been living with HIV for 7 years. Santiago has been living in the United States for the past 14 years, although his family still lives in Guatemala. When Santiago comes into the clinic for his treatment, his provider recognizes that Santiago has not been following his treatment plan, and his viral load is increasing rapidly. In order for his health to be maintained, Santiago should be given immediate care and medication. When asked about his adherence to the treatment plan, Santiago says that he is afraid of the side effects of the medications and that he has been supplementing his treatment plan with practicing daily prayer, undergoing spiritual cleansings, and visiting a folk healer.
-Explain how you would find out additional information about the spiritual cleansings and practices of the folk healer that Santiago has been visiting while being sensitive to Santiago’s beliefs.
-Recommend at least two culturally competent approaches that the provider could use to address Santiago’s fears about the side effects of the antiviral medications that were prescribed to him.
-Explain the ethically and culturally appropriate action you should take in this circumstance. Should you “strongly recommend” that Santiago take the medication despite his fears? Explain.
-Identify at least two additional considerations that should be taken into account when analyzing Santiago’s case. Explain.
