Communication, Cultural Safety and Patient-Centred Care
What this domain tests
This domain tests communication that is respectful, understandable and culturally safe in the New Zealand context. It includes Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, health literacy, shared decision-making and working with interpreters.
Core rules and concepts
- Cultural safety means the patient feels safe in the care encounter; the practitioner examines their own assumptions and power.
- Te Tiriti principles commonly applied in health are partnership, participation and protection.
- Use plain language, check understanding and avoid jargon; provide written or visual information where useful.
- Use a qualified interpreter when language competence is uncertain; do not rely on a child or untrained family member.
- Māori and Pacific health models emphasise whānau, family, spiritual and community wellbeing, not only the eye condition.
Worked example
A patient with limited English is asked to consent to a dilated examination. Reasoning: use a qualified interpreter, explain the purpose, risks and alternatives, confirm understanding with teach-back, and allow whānau support if the patient wishes. Document that an interpreter was used and that consent was obtained.
Traps that cost marks
Using a family member as interpreter for sensitive information; assuming understanding from a nod; ignoring whānau involvement; using technical terms without explanation.
Key points
- Cultural safety requires reflection on power and assumptions.
- Te Tiriti principles include partnership, participation and protection.
- Use plain language and teach-back to check understanding.
- Use a qualified interpreter when needed.
- Include whānau and patient preferences in care decisions.