RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 International Perspectives
JF NeoReviews
JO NeoReviews
FD American Academy of Pediatrics
SP e109
OP e112
DO 10.1542/neo.14-3-e109
VO 14
IS 3
A1 Bester, Mary Estelle
A1 Lovering, Sandra
A1 Arafat, Layla
YR 2013
UL http://neoreviews.aappublications.org/content/14/3/e109.abstract
AB The birthing experience is a universal experience but strongly influenced by the culture of the patient, health care providers, and institution. Arab Muslim patients’ spiritual and cultural values are intertwined and affect their lives, including pregnancy, labor, and neonatal care.A review of the literature and practices within a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia describes the values of the Arab Muslim patient. The spiritual values based on Islam necessitate an understanding of practices such as using zam-zam water, praying, reading of the Qu’ran, and specific religious practices around the neonate including Adhan. Cultural practices specific to the perinatal period that need acknowledgment include the use of special phrases such as Ma’shalah, Bismi’ allah before caring for patients as protection against beliefs such as the Evil Eye.