The development of a conceptual model for multicultural nursing

Cultural diversity exists among all humans, and nurses and patients are no exception to this general phenomenon. The cultural backgrounds of individual nurses and patients are composed of learned norms, values, customs, and beliefs. If nurses are to be as effective as they might in providing holistic nursing care to patients of culturally diverse backgrounds, their technical expertise must be complemented by knowledge of and respect for the various cultures. This is particularly true in situations where nurses are from cultural and ethnic backgrounds different from the patients for whom they are caring. The development of a conceptual model for multicultural nursing practice, based on King's Theory of Goal Attainment, provides direction for both practice and research in nursing and is an essential initial step toward better preparing nurses to provide holistic care in a global society.