The multicultural workplace: comfort, safety and migrant nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Sociology
• Cultural Studies

Background:

• Australian society is increasingly multicultural, leading to diverse workplaces.
• Occupational wellbeing in multicultural settings requires examination, particularly for migrant women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of migrant women nurses from non-English speaking backgrounds.
• To understand their challenges and journey towards establishing a place within the New South Wales healthcare system.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological study design.
• In-depth examination of participants' experiences in the nursing work environment.

Main Results:

• Participants reported traumatic entry experiences into the nursing work environment.
• Familiar roles were disrupted by unfamiliar and uncomfortable impositions.
• The work environment was perceived as perilous, necessitating a search for sanctuary and comfort.

Conclusions:

• Migrant women nurses navigate significant cultural and role adjustments.
• Establishing a sense of belonging and safety is crucial for their wellbeing.
• The study highlights critical issues of culture and safety in nursing workplaces.