From “Cultural Differences in Response to Pain,” a section included in the textbook Nursing: A Concept-Based Approach to Learning, published by Pearson. In October, the company announced that it would remove the passage from future editions of the book.

Chinese clients may not ask for medication because they do not want to take the nurse away from a more important task.

Indians who follow Hindu practices believe that pain must be endured in preparation for a better life in the next cycle.

Filipino clients may not take pain medication because they view pain as the will of God.

Arabs/Muslims may thank Allah for pain if it is the result of a healing medical procedure.

Jews may be vocal and demanding of assistance. They believe that pain must be shared and validated by others.

Native Americans may pick a sacred number when asked to rate pain on a numerical scale.

Blacks believe suffering and pain are inevitable.