Caution: These are broad generalizations and should not be used to stereotype any individuals. They are most applicable to the least acculturated members.
Communication
Provide frequent updates on patient treatments and progress to help allay the anxiety of family members. They may expect nurses to be friendly, warm, caring, and to “feel” for them.
They may speak loudly and seem abrasive. This was likely necessary in Russia to get attention in the healthcare system.
Make direct eye contact, be firm, and be respectful. Address patients as “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Ms.”
Time Orientation
Most are future-oriented and punctuality is valued. They may arrive early to appointments in an effort to be seen first, or late so as not to waste time waiting.
Pain
Russian patients tend to have a high pain threshold and stoic attitude regarding pain. Coupled with fear of drug addiction, it may be necessary to discuss with them the importance of pain medication. Pre-medicate for dressing changes or daily care that causes discomfort.
Family & Gender Issues
Family members and friends are expected to visit patients in the hospital; they may participate in providing care. Family may want to stay overnight.
The sex of the provider is usually not an issue, but they may prefer to have a family member of the same gender present when performing personal care.
Pregnancy & Birth
Exercise & lifting heavy objects often avoided during pregnancy for fear of harming the unborn child.
A female relative is often the preferred labor & delivery partner.
End of Life
Since family members may want to withhold a fatal diagnosis from the patient, ask patient upon admission (or before the need arises, if possible) how much information they want to be given regarding their condition, or to whom the information should be provided.
Hospice care is generally accepted.
Autopsies and organ donations may be refused due to what may be considered the sacredness of the body.
Health Related Practices
Many, especially the elderly, believe that illness results from cold. Therefore, keep them covered, close windows, keep the room warm, and avoid iced drinks, especially if they have a fever. They may prefer sponge baths to showers.
They may not like taking large numbers of pills. Space medication administration so that as few pills as possible are given at one time.
They may prefer non-pharmacologic interventions for nausea, including lemon slices, ginger ale, mineral water, or weak tea with lemon.
They may practice cupping; resulting marks should not be misinterpreted as abuse or a symptom.
Choosing among various treatment options may be challenging since some patients may be used to a system that offered no choices.
Patients and their families may frequently offer small gifts of food or chocolate. Accept them, as it may be perceived as rude to turn them down.
Note: Information for this profile is based on the work of Peter Anderson, R.N. and from Evanikoff del Puerto, L. and E. Sigal (2005), Russians in J. G. Lipson and S .L. Dibble, eds. Culture & Clinical Care, 415-430. San Francisco: UCSF Nursing Press.