Contributing to the ICNP: validating the term cultural diversity.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Cultural Competence
• Healthcare Terminology

Background:

• South Africa participated in the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Classification of Nursing Practice (ICNP) project, funded by the WK Kellogg Foundation.
• A research group in South Africa identified 'cultural diversity' as a key term requiring definition within the project.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a clear definition for the term 'cultural diversity'.
• To validate the proposed definition of cultural diversity.
• To submit the term and its definition to the International Council of Nurses (ICN) for potential inclusion in the ICNP.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study employing a philosophical perspective to explore nursing practice.
• Utilized the combined method recommended by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) for term definition and validation.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive definition of 'cultural diversity' was established, supported by literature review and validation.
• Cultural diversity was defined as a type of culture characterized by the coexistence of different ethnic, religious, linguistic, and other groups, each with distinct values, beliefs, traditions, and lifestyles.
• The defined term and its characteristics were submitted to the ICN in November 2002.

Conclusions:

• The research group received confirmation in December 2003 that the ICNP Evaluation Committee recommended the inclusion of 'cultural diversity' in the ICNP.
• The validated definition of cultural diversity is now available for international utilization within nursing practice.