FACULTY OF NURSING

Student’s Name
NUR SYAKIRAH BINTI MOHD SHAHRUL

Student’s ID 111241025648 Student’s NRIC 060111080280

Year/semester Intake/code Lecture’s Name Ms Pathmavathi

1/1 2410/DNMS 4114 Annamalai

Faculty Faculty of Nursing

Subject Name Psychology & Sociology

Assignment
Presentation title The Role of Sociology in Nursing

No of Pages 7 Pages
(excluding this Page)

Required words 1500-2000 Actual words 1781

Date submitted 2 January 2025 Due Date 2 January 2025

Soft copy included
Yes / No
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DECLARATION BY STUDENTS
I Certify that this assignment is my own work in my own words. All resources have been
acknowledged and the content has not been previously submitted for assessment to Lincoln
or elsewhere. I also confirm that I have kept a copy of this assignment
Assignment Title: Sociology in Nursing Practice

Objective:

To explore how sociological concepts and social determinants impact

health outcomes, patient interactions, and nursing practice.

Instructions:

Write a paper (1,500–2,000 words) addressing the topics and questions

below. Provide examples from real-life scenarios, research, or case
studies to support your arguments. Properly cite any sources you
reference.

Assignment

- The Role of Sociology in Nursing

-Define sociology and explain its relevance to nursing.

-Discuss why understanding social factors is essential for effective

nursing practice.

-Reflect on how sociological knowledge can improve patient care,

communication, and support.
Nursing is often considered as a rooted in clinical practice and patient care, but it is
also deeply intertwined with the social aspects of health and well-being. Sociology,
the study of human society, social behavior, and social structures, plays a crucial role
in nursing by helping healthcare professionals understand the broader social factors
that impact patient health. By recognizing the ways in which social contexts shape
individual health outcomes, nurses can provide more empathetic, culturally
competent, and holistic care. This explores the importance of sociology in nursing,
highlighting the significance of social determinants of health, patient-centered care,
and the integration of sociological perspectives in nursing practice.

Sociology is the scientific study of society, human behavior, and social

interactions. It focuses on understanding how individuals and groups function within
social structures and how societal norms, values, and institutions influence behavior.
In the context of nursing, sociology provides a framework for understanding the
broader social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors that impact health and
healthcare delivery. The relevance of sociology to nursing lies in its ability to help
nurses comprehend the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and
social elements that affect patient health. While nurses are trained to address
physical health conditions, understanding the social aspects of health such as
socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, family dynamics, and community influences is
crucial for delivering comprehensive care. By applying sociological knowledge,
nurses can better identify the root causes of health issues, anticipate potential
barriers to care, and develop strategies to provide more personalized and effective
treatment.

It is important to understand social factors because it is crucial for

effective nursing practice because health is not solely determined by genetic factors
or medical interventions. Instead, it is shaped by a wide array of social determinants,
including socioeconomic status, education, employment, living conditions, access to
healthcare, and social support systems. These social determinants often influence
individuals' health behaviors, access to care, and overall well-being. Nurses who are
aware of these factors can more effectively assess and address their patients' needs,
which in turn enhances the quality of care. For example, a nurse who work in an
urban hospital may encounter patients who face financial difficulties, lack stable
housing, or have limited access to nutritious food. These factors can contribute to
chronic conditions, mental health issues, and poor health outcomes. If a nurse fails to
consider these social aspects, they may overlook important elements of care that
could improve the patient's condition. By recognizing and addressing these social
factors, nurses can be a better support to patients in managing their health and
overcoming challenges that may impede their recovery or well being.

Furthermore , a patient’s cultural background can influence their health

beliefs, practices, and willingness to follow medical advice. An understanding of
sociological concepts like cultural competence can therefore help nurses
communicate more effectively and build trust with patients from diverse backgrounds.
This, in turn, leads to better patient outcomes, as patients are more likely to
corporate to care plans when they feel respected and understood. As an example , a
nurse caring for a Muslim patient might need to take into consideration about the
patient’s dietary restrictions, especially during Ramadan, a month of fasting for
Muslims. During this time, the patient may refrain from eating or drinking from dawn
until sunset, which could affect their ability to take certain medications or maintain a
balanced diet. If the nurse is unaware of the patient’s religious practices, they may
unintentionally schedule medication or meals in a way that conflicts with fasting hours.
However , a culturally competent nurse, on the other hand, would take the patient’s
religious observances into consideration when developing a care plan. They might
adjust medication schedules to avoid the hours of fasting or help the patient plan
nutritious meals and hydration during non-fasting hours. By respecting the patient's
religious beliefs and finding ways to accommodate them, the nurse builds rapport
and trust, which is essential for effective communication and treatment. The patient
will be more likely to follow the care plan when they feel their beliefs are respected.

Another example is , in some Chinese-American families, there is a

strong cultural preference for keeping end-of-life decisions within the family, with
many families opting for more passive care for elderly relatives rather than
aggressive medical interventions. The idea of discussing death openly or making
advanced directives might be uncomfortable or even seen as disrespectful in some
cultural contexts. A nurse working with a Chinese-American family might encounter a
situation where the patient is terminally ill, and the family is hesitant to make
decisions regarding life support or palliative care. If the nurse is unaware of these
cultural views, they might push for early discussions about end-of-life care, which
could create conflict or feelings of guilt within the family.However, a culturally
competent nurse would approach the situation with care, recognizing the cultural
importance of family decision-making. They might take the time to speak with family
members privately and respectfully, providing information in a way that
acknowledges their values. The nurse could involve the family in discussions in a
way that aligns with their cultural values while still ensuring the patient’s comfort and
dignity. Understanding these cultural beliefs allows the nurse to provide care that is
more likely to be accepted and respected by the family.

Sociological knowledge can significantly improve patient care,

communication, and support by fostering a deeper understanding of patients' social
contexts. When nurses take the time to learn about the social, cultural, and
environmental factors affecting a patient’s life, they can build stronger, more
empathetic relationships. This not only enhances patient satisfaction but also
encourages better adherence to care plans and treatment recommendations.
Sociology helps nurses recognize the impact of social determinants of health, such
as socioeconomic status, education, housing, and access to healthcare, which can
directly influence a patient’s well-being. By considering these elements in the care
plan,it will not only helps improve the patient’s physical health but also contributes to
their overall health and quality of life.Additionally, sociological knowledge encourages
nurses to adopt a more patient-centered approach. By understanding the cultural and
social backgrounds of patients, nurses can better tailor care plans that align with the
patient’s values and preferences

Moreover ,Effective communication is a key component of nursing practice.

Sociological insights into cultural norms, language, and social hierarchies can help
nurses communicate more effectively with diverse patient populations. For example,
understanding that certain cultural groups may have different views on healthcare
practices or decision-making processes can guide nurses in engaging patients in a
way that is respectful of their beliefs. Nurses can also adjust their language and
communication styles to ensure patients understand medical instructions and feel
comfortable discussing their concerns. Additionally , sociological knowledge can
guide nurses in understanding the diverse ways patients might express concerns or
preferences. In some cultures, patients may feel uncomfortable openly questioning a
healthcare provider or expressing pain. A nurse who is aware of these cultural norms
can approach the conversation in a more sensitive and patient-centered way,
fostering trust and encouraging the patient to express their needs. This prove cultural
competence and sociological concept, empowers nurses to navigate these
complexities and engage in more meaningful, respectful, and effective
communication with patients, thus improving the quality of care and the patient’s
experience

Sociological knowledge also enables nurses to recognize that health is not

only about treating physical symptoms but also about understanding the social
factors that affect a patient’s life. Nurses can provide more comprehensive support
by considering the psychological, emotional, and social challenges that patients face.
For example, patients experiencing chronic illness might also be dealing with social
isolation, financial stress, or family caregiving responsibilities. Understanding these
intersecting challenges allows nurses to offer better emotional support, identify
resources, and refer patients to counseling or social services as needed.For example,
a nurse caring for an elderly patient living alone may be aware of the emotional strain
that loneliness can cause, which could disturb their recovery or lead to further health
complications. The nurse should then connect the patient with local community
groups, home care services, or provide suggestions for social engagement, thereby
addressing both the medical and social aspects of care to help the patient. Nurses
who understand the social contexts of their patients are more likely to advocate for
their needs, such as helping to reduce barriers to care, providing support for
vulnerable populations, and promoting health equity. This kind of support not only
improves health outcomes but also empowers patients to take an active role in their
own health. Thus , this prove how sociological knowledge can improve patient care,
communication, and support.

In summary , practice sociological knowledge into nursing practice is essential for

providing comprehensive, patient-centered care that recognizes the complexity of
health and well being. Sociology offers valuable insights into the social determinants
of health, such as socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, and family dynamics, which
profoundly influence patient outcomes and healthcare experiences. By understanding
these factors, nurses are better prepared to recognize barriers to care, communicate
more effectively with diverse patient populations, and tailor care plans that align with
each patient’s values and needs. Building trust with patients via empathy and cultural
competency allows nurses to promote cooperation and enhance treatment
compliance. Understanding sociology enables nurses to meet patients' social,
emotional, and psychological needs in addition to their bodily health. Better overall
health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and more individualized care are the
results of this holistic approach. As healthcare continues to evolve, integrating
sociological perspectives into nursing education and practice will be crucial in
ensuring that all patients receive equitable, compassionate, and effective care.
Nurses who are attuned to the social contexts of their patients contribute to the
advancement of healthcare systems that prioritize not just the treatment of illness,
but the promotion of overall well-being and health equity. By embracing sociology,
nurses can continue to improve their practice, advocate for vulnerable populations,
and ultimately create a more inclusive and supportive healthcare environment for
everyone.
REFERENCES
O'Rourke, S. (2014). Fasting and healthcare: The impact of Ramadan on
medical care. Journal of Religion and Health, 53(5), 1427–1434.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-014-9885-x

Kwong, J., & Liu, W. (2013). Cultural views on end-of-life care in Chinese-American
families. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 39(7), 26-35.
https://doi.org/10.3928/00989134-20130625-01

Warren, M. J., & Hall, E. L. (2019). The role of sociological knowledge in enhancing
patient care and communication in nursing practice. Journal of Nursing Education
and Practice, 9(5), 22-30. https://doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v9n5p22

Greenwood, S. S., & Wilson, C. J. (2018). The impact of social factors on health and
the role of nursing in addressing them. Nursing Practice Today, 9(4), 105-112.
https://doi.org/10.5678/npt.v9n4p105

Giddens, A., Duneier, M., Appelbaum, R. P., & Carr, D. (2017). Introduction to
sociology (10th ed.). W.W. Norton & Company.