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The article describes how uncertainty about, and prejudice towards, that which is unfamiliar can influence encounters with mentally ill people of other ethnic origin than Danish, with the result that the patient benefits from less of the nurses' time, contact and advice. The nurse must be aware of her own culture, attitudes and prejudices when she receives the patient. She must see the individual human being rather than focusing on the patient's culture/that which is unfamiliar and express empathy in the form of openness to other cultural and social norms and values. Interest in and respect for the patient can be demonstrated in e.g. the nurse asking him if there is anything she does not understand. This can help to reduce any feeling of uncertainty the nurse may have as well as to engender dialogue. It is important for the nurse to communicate clearly and to explain things that may be difficult to understand for a patient with another cultural background. The cultural aspects of the encounter add another dimension to the relationship, increased awareness and reflection from which we can learn something, also in our relationship with Danish patients.

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