Answer:
There are many groups that share common sets of beliefs. These belief systems may be based on shared religion, ethnicity, or ideology. Knowledge of these beliefs and the reasonable range of interpretation of doctrine can be very helpful in deciding if unusual beliefs should be respected. Good resources for guidance in this area include patients and family members themselves, staff members with personal knowledge or experience, hospital chaplains, social workers, and interpreters. Unusual beliefs that fall outside known belief systems should prompt more in-depth discussions to insure they are reasonable.
