With regard to health care, the physician is regarded as the authority versus a physician-patient relationship. Due to the emphasis the culture places on respect of harmony, Japanese patients traditionally ask very few questions of health care workers even when complete understanding of a treatment plan is not achieved in an effort to avoid conflict and emotional distress. To the Japanese, turning down a request, particularly one of a physician, results in embarrassment and loss of face. No true Japanese would do such a thing. Subsequently, this often makes nursing of Japanese patients a pleasure, as any nurse that has had to care for a non-complaints patient is likely aware of. This also obligates nurses of Japanese patients to ensure that there is a complete and clear understanding of the patient care plan. The resistance to exhibit emotional distress is founded in specific Japanese religious beliefs. Shintoism, an ancient religion that is still greatly practiced, has contributed to contemporary views of health care workers. The nurse must look beyond mere responses and into the mindset of the Japanese patient to be able to completely and accurately assess them. Shinto followers worshipped the spiritual power of kami and believed the force to be uncontrollable. Thus, healers capable of interacting with the spirit world on their behalf were employed to provide relief from both physical and spiritual illnesses. These traditional beliefs have been integrated into contemporary Japanese health care practices, as they too leave the decision-making to health care workers versus themselves (Hansen, 2007). Nurses need to encourage and educate Japanese patients in relaxation and breathing techniques to help reduce their stressors.
Due to its progressive and tolerant attitude towards other cultures and beliefs, Shintoism has influenced the perception of health care providers. Subsequently, the Japanese are receptive to various health care workers in treating their ailments.