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Bridging the Cultural Divide – Community Nursing

June 30, 2025/News

Registered nurse Wen Xiao is originally from China and speaks fluent Mandarin. It’s a skill she is using to help patients in Brisbane, particularly around the Upper Mt Gravatt and Sunnybank areas.

“There’s a large Chinese population there, and they may face language barriers when it comes to accessing services, or they’re unfamiliar with the Australian aged care system,” Wen said.
“Being able to bridge that gap culturally, and in an appropriate way is so important. It’s about being understanding and also being able to advocate for their needs as well.”

AQ @ Home is committed to being in tune with the local community. There are interpreters available, but having Wen on board means there’s an added layer of trust and confidence.

“In China, health and ageing are sensitive topics,” Wen said. “Issues like continence are a sensitive topic.
“A lot of Chinese people don’t feel comfortable asking for help, they think it’s embarrassing to ask for help – they feel like they’re losing face, and there’s a sense of shame.”

Wen added her Chinese patients felt comfortable with her.

“I can easily explain to them what is happening, and what services are available,” she said.

AQ @ Home offer a continence advisory service, clinical nursing assessment, and clinical nursing support, including wound care, catheter reviews, pain, mobility, hygiene, falls, dietary screening and medication support.
The continence advisory service is primarily accessed through telehealth, and for clients paying privately, there’s no need for an external referral.
Wen said she was proud of her work with AQ @ Home,

“My Dad was a traditional Chinese doctor, and he often treated people without charging them,” she said. “I would ask him why, and he said because that person may be old, or poor, or they simply needed help.
“He would tell me, you have to be kind, and you have to be willing to help. And I just enjoy helping people and providing person-centred care.”

AQ @ Home is also looking to expand Wen’s role in the community, offering presentations in Mandarin to local groups, informing people about the services available, and how they can be accessed.