Cultural Sensitivity Among Clinical Nurses: A Descriptive Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Cultural Competence
• Healthcare Disparities

Background:

• Cultural sensitivity is crucial for effective healthcare delivery, particularly in diverse patient populations.
• Nurses frequently encounter challenges related to cultural differences in patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the cultural sensitivity levels of nurses in Turkish rural and urban hospitals.
• To identify factors influencing nurses' intercultural sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive and correlational study involving 516 clinical nurses.
• Data collected using the Socio-Demographic Questionnaire and the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale.

Main Results:

• Most nurses reported experiencing culture-related problems, particularly language barriers and differing health perceptions.
• Higher intercultural sensitivity scores were associated with female gender, higher education, and prior cultural care training.
• Nurses expressed a strong desire for further education in cultural care.

Conclusions:

• Nurses require enhanced preparation in cultural sensitivity and competence.
• Formal education and continuing training are essential to improve healthcare quality and reduce disparities.