Values of Filipino Nurses: Work Ethic

Common Values and Attitudes

• A strong sense of collective responsibility is a common value among Filipino nurses, reflecting a communal approach in their professional lives.
• "Bahala na" embodies a philosophy of surrendering to fate or trusting in a higher power, often associated with a positive outlook in uncertain situations.
• Unmarried Filipino nurses typically respond cautiously to questions about pregnancy, often revealing a cultural tendency to avoid direct acknowledgment of personal matters.

Working Conditions and Willingness

• Filipino nurses generally display a positive attitude towards working conditions, often accepting challenges with resilience and adaptability.
• They are recognized for their willingness to work in diverse environments, displaying flexibility and a commitment to their roles.

Communication and Interpersonal Relationships

• A notable characteristic in communication among Filipino nurses is their tendency to use inclusive language, often opting for "we" to signify teamwork and shared efforts.
• In interpersonal relationships, Filipinos emphasize strong connections, valuing loyalty and empathy with friends and colleagues.

Reactions to Compliments and Questions

• Filipinos often respond to compliments with humility, sometimes deflecting praise to avoid appearing boastful or arrogant.
• Raising questions is generally viewed as respectful, but some may hesitate out of concern for imposing on authority or appearing challenging.

Cultural Dynamics and Social Influence

• Close friendships are vital in the lives of Filipino nurses, providing emotional support and enhancing their sense of belonging.
• The concept of "bahala na" reflects a reliance on divine influence and societal norms, signifying a balance between human effort and spiritual guidance.

Challenges in Assimilation and Response to Authority

• Cultural burdens related to identity and belonging may complicate the assimilation process for Filipino nurses in mainstream culture.
• There is often reluctance to turn down requests from supervisors, rooted in a cultural respect for authority and a desire to maintain harmony within the workplace.

Health Attitudes and Preventive Care

• Filipino nurses typically advocate for preventive health checkups, reflecting a proactive attitude towards health management within their community.
• The question "Are you pregnant?" during medical checkups is usually met with sensitivity; unmarried nurses may avoid direct answers due to cultural implications surrounding pregnancy.

General Misunderstandings and Communication Styles

• Filipinos may be misunderstood when they do not provide feedback, as their communication style leans towards indirectness or implied meanings rather than explicit statements.
• The collective acknowledgment of contributions through inclusive language reinforces the communal value system prevalent in Filipino culture.