Nurse educators' views in relation to teaching cultural competence to nursing students.

Abstract Cultural competence can be beneficial to health and improve patient care and outcomes, the absence of it can impact health equity and patient outcomes. Educating the future workforce is integral to the role of the nurse educator, therefore, this project will explore the views of educators on teaching cultural competence. Research question: ‘What are the views of nurse educators in teaching cultural competence to nursing students?’ Aim/ Objectives: 1. To understand nurse educators views and perspectives of cultural competence. 2. To understand if there are challenges faced by nurse educators in teaching cultural competence. 3. To identify how cultural competence relates to practice. Method: A qualitative descriptive design was used to explore the views of nurse educators in teaching cultural competence. Focus group discussions were held, with a total sample of nine nurse educators. Using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, six themes and fifteen subthemes emerged. Findings: Nurse educators have some knowledge of cultural competence, however they raised concerns around this not being complete. Educators acknowledged their responsibility in teaching this and its importance to quality care and awareness of racism. Conclusion: Going forward, nurse educators highlighted the need for forums where collaboration can take place with decolonization of the curriculum and curriculum review to allow for more content on cultural competence in the curriculum. Impact on patient care: Culturally competent care significantly contributes to patient satisfaction, holistic care and improved healthcare outcomes for patients. Patient and Public Involvement: This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.