Maternal Health Stats
What group of women in the U.S. experiences the highest rates of maternal mortality?
Native American and Alaska Native women
What is one culturally safe way to greet or address an Indigenous patient?
Ask how they prefer to be addressed and listen respectfully.
What does IPV stand for?
Intimate Partner Violence
What is the first step to building trust with Indigenous patients?
Listening actively without interrupting.
Name one organization that supports Indigenous maternal health.
California Tribal Epidemiology Center, Indian Health Service, or March of Dimes Tribal Initiatives.
Around what percentage of maternal deaths are preventable with timely care?
About 80%
What is one key value often emphasized in Indigenous cultures regarding health and healing?
Holistic balance: mind, body, spirit, and community.
What is one common barrier Indigenous women face when reporting IPV?
Fear of discrimination, retaliation, or lack of trust in law enforcement.
True or False: It’s best to speak quickly to show confidence during appointments.
False
speaking calmly and allowing silence shows respect.
What’s one local resource healthcare workers in Coachella Valley could refer patients to?
Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health, Inc.
True or False: Most maternal deaths occur during childbirth.
False
Many occur in the postpartum period (up to 1 year after birth).
Why is it important to include family or elders in a patient’s care plan?
Family and elders play a central role in decision making and emotional support.
What screening question could you ask to identify potential IPV safely?
“Do you feel safe at home?” or “Has anyone hurt or threatened you?”
What does trauma-informed care emphasize?
Safety, trust, empowerment, and collaboration.
Where can healthcare workers find training on culturally responsive maternal care?
CDC’s Hear Her Campaign or National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center.
Name one major cause of maternal mortality among Indigenous women.
Hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, infection, or cardiomyopathy
What does “cultural humility” mean for healthcare workers?
Recognizing one’s own biases and committing to lifelong learning about others’ cultures.
Name one sign that might indicate a patient is experiencing IPV.
Unexplained injuries, anxiety, missed appointments, or controlling partner behavior.
How can you demonstrate empathy during a difficult conversation?
Maintain eye contact, use validating statements, and show patience.
What is one benefit of connecting patients with a community doula?
Provides emotional support, advocacy, and improved birth outcomes.
What social factor contributes most strongly to maternal health disparities?
Structural racism and lack of access to culturally safe healthcare
Give an example of a culturally unsafe action.
Dismissing traditional healing practices or assuming Western medicine is superior.
Name one culturally appropriate resource or hotline for IPV support.
StrongHearts Native Helpline
(1-844-7NATIVE).
What should you do if a patient declines care for cultural reasons?
Respect their choice, ask open-ended questions, and explore alternatives collaboratively.
What is one step clinics can take to improve Indigenous maternal health access?
Partner with tribal organizations, hire Indigenous staff, or provide interpreter services.