Perceived cultural competence among nursing students: A cross-sectional study

Introduction The cultural diversity of Israel's population presents significant challenges for nursing and healthcare professionals. Understanding the cultural impact on health is crucial for ensuring quality care and meeting diverse population needs. Objective To investigate the relationships among socio-demographic parameters, multicultural coursework, cross-cultural patient interactions, and cultural and self-awareness among nursing students. Method In this cross-sectional study we collected data from 900 nursing students across three Israeli colleges, using a questionnaire combining the Clinical Cultural Competency Questionnaire and a Demographic and Social Characteristics Questionnaire. We used descriptive statistics, parametric and non-parametric correlations, multivariate analysis of variance, and hierarchical multiple regression analyses. Results We revealed high levels of cultural awareness, self-awareness, and comfort among participants. However, practical skills scored lower, and multicultural knowledge demonstrated the lowest scores. We found no correlation between cultural awareness and exposure to patients from different cultures. Demographic factors exhibited significant associations with cultural competence components. Age positively correlated with self-awareness, comfort level, and skills, but not with cultural awareness. Third- and fourth-year participants displayed higher cultural competence compared to first- and second-year participants. Ethnic background emerged as a crucial factor in cultural competence development, while sex differences, though significant, showed minimal effect across all measures. Conclusions We have revealed the complex interrelation of factors associated with Israeli nursing students’ cultural competence, including ethnicity, sex, age, and educational exposure. Structured cultural competence training may be necessary within this country's nursing education programs, particularly in contexts of societal conflict. Practice Implications Cultural competence should be considered as a comprehensive component of mandatory nursing curricula in Israel to enhance students’ practical multicultural skills. Clinical experiences might emphasize multicultural therapeutic encounters, and nursing education could provide ongoing opportunities for cross-cultural interaction throughout academic training.