Aboriginal healing in this case can be considered one of two things. One being healing of illness or recovery of disease while in the hospital or in the home, or two being healing following residential schools. I will be briefly mentioning both.

       First I believe that it is important to address the particular way in which the nurse may interact with the Aboriginal client. Spector, as cited in Arnold & Underman Boggs (2003), stated that "nurses need to understand the value of nonverbal communication in therapeutic conversations. You will need to listen carefully with the Native American client who is likely to speak in a low tone". Also it is important to mention that taking your time when with the Aboriginal client is essential because if you rush they may feel that you lack interest in their needs and may not feel comfortable sharing with you. Also while doing any health teaching it is important to note that the majority of Aboriginal clients learn best through oral and observational means so pamphlets and written materials are usually not benefical. Also in Western culture, where time is considered to be of the essence, missed or late appointments can be considered frustrating. Aboriginal time, however, can differ from clock time. To enhance communication, it can be useful to remind the client of an scheduled appointment or mention that they should be on time.

       A very important value in Aboriginal culture is family. Therefore, as a nurse it may be benefical to get to know the family and to use good communication techniques for time management. Also, often when decision making it may be importnat for the family matriarch to be present but asking the client if that is benefical is important.

       Religious beliefs in Native American culture are often strongly linked to nature or the earth. Illness is often viewed as a punishment due to imbalance between nature. It is important for the nurses and other medical staff not to take offence if the Aboriginal client asks medical advice from an elder or from a shaman. The shaman may recommend specific herbs for the client so it can be important for the nurse to know which herbs may be prescribed to avoid drug interactions.                                  (Arnold & Underman Boggs (2003))

     Healing following experiences in residential schools can often be a difficult experience. It was only recently recognized as a North American epidemic for those who were in the school and, therefore, there are limitations to the resources out there.The Aboriginal Healing Foundation is a great resourse and provides lots of information regarding residential schools healing. Also, it can provide information about where Aboriginal healing circles are within certain communities and gives some links to help those who suffered in these schools. I still feel that it is important that more research be put into this area of study as there is still a lack of information regarding the residential schools.