Determination of Intercultural Sensitivity Among Nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Healthcare Management
• Cultural Competence Studies

Background:

• Cultural sensitivity is crucial for effective patient care in diverse healthcare settings.
• Understanding nurses' intercultural sensitivity levels is essential for developing targeted training programs.
• Previous research indicates varying levels of cultural competence among healthcare professionals globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the intercultural sensitivity levels of nurses in a specialized Obstetrics/Gynecology and Children Hospital.
• To identify specific areas of intercultural competence, including engagement, respect, confidence, enjoyment, and attentiveness.
• To provide data for enhancing cultural sensitivity training for nursing staff.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study was conducted with 183 volunteer nurses from a hospital in Gaziantep, Turkey.
• Data were collected using a Personal Information Form and the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale (ISS).
• Non-probability sampling was employed, with data gathered via paper-pencil questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Nurses achieved an overall mean score of 82.62 ± 12.83 on the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale.
• The highest mean score was observed for Interaction Engagement (24.18 ± 3.87), followed by Respect for Cultural Differences (20.68 ± 4.41).
• All subscale scores indicated a strong level of intercultural sensitivity among the participating nurses.

Conclusions:

• The study concludes that nurses in this healthcare setting possess above-average levels of intercultural sensitivity.
• Findings suggest a positive foundation for culturally competent care within the hospital.
• Recommendations include leveraging these strengths and continuing professional development in cultural competence.