This chapter on Russians focuses on the cultural beliefs, values, and practices of people of Russian heritage. An extensive Russian history is presented to educate the reader about the complexity of the Russian Revolution, the challenges of the Soviet era, and the current formation of independent countries. Even though there are many ethnic groups who have emigrated from Russia and other Russian independent countries, the emphasis is given to the Russian population living in the United States and other countries. This chapter follows the dominant values and beliefs according to the 12 domains of the Purnell Model for Cultural Competence: overview/heritage, communication, family roles and organization, workforce issues, biocultural ecology, high-risk behaviors, nutrition, pregnancy, death rituals, spirituality, health-care practices, and health-care practitioners.
