Even without the final results of Census 2000, it is estimated that one in three Americans are members of an ethnically diverse cultural group. Health care providers are caring for increasing numbers of individuals, families, and communities of non-dominant cultural backgrounds than ever before. In addition, more health professionals are using their skills in communities beyond the United States, working and consulting on short- and long-term assignments abroad. Furthermore, the skills which must be mastered in order to work well with clients of other cultures are skills which improve the ability to work effectively with clients of any culture, including one's own. This report highlights efforts to provide experiences for nurses and students in other health care professions to develop competence in caring for culturally diverse populations. Program activities include leveled course content related to culture, clinical experiences with individuals and populations of non-dominant culture, and opportunities for global health courses and clinical experiences outside the US. The report includes results of student assessments of their own cultural adaptability using the Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory (CCAI) (Kelley & Meyers, 1995). Undergraduate and graduate nursing students (N=170) were surveyed at a regional university in Appalachia at the beginning and completion of their student careers. Findings indicate variability in adaptability. The tool has good reliability, validity and personal value for students who are preparing to deliver tomorrow's health care.
Learning Objectives: The participant will be able to: 1. List 4 stages of cultural competence 2. Identify a reliable and valid tool for measuring cultural adaptability. 3. Describe a regional university's program to develop cultural competence in health science students working with community clients
Keywords: Cultural Competency, Community-Based Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: East Tennessee State University
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.