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Saturday, 16 November 2013: 3:35 PM
Learning Objective 1: Describe the rational for the importance of developing cultural competence in nursing
Learning Objective 2: Describe the findings from the research on the effect of an international service learning cultural immersion experience on the cultural competence of BSN nursing students
In 2008, the American Association for Colleges of Nursing published its Cultural Competency Initiative for Nursing. This initiative was in response to the continuing disparities in health care and the need for better understanding of culture. The initiative challenged nursing education to better prepare culturally competent nurses to facilitate health practices and eliminate disparities. At CSUSM, service learning projects provide an opportunity for students to be immersed in cultures and projects which enhance cultural competence. The framework for the study was Campinha-Bacote’s model of cultural competency which describes cultural awareness, cultural knowledge, cultural skill, cultural encounter and cultural desire. The aim of the research was to study the effect of an international service learning experience on student’s levels of cultural competency. The methodology was a mixed method study with levels of cultural competency measured with the quantitative tool, IAPCC-SV Inventory for Assessing the Process of Cultural Competence Among Healthcare Professionals- Student Version. Students were surveyed before and after participation in an international experience. Students filled out a post trip interview schedule composed of six open ended questions. The presentation will include research findings and conclusions. Using these service learning projects in our curriculum helps facilitate cultural competency. In addition to the educational opportunity, faculty research demonstrated higher levels of cultural competency in students who participated in these projects. Research is ongoing, and evaluations have been done to further develop these projects. This research was supported by STTI Zeta Mu Research Grant 2009 and STTI Phi Theta Research award 2012.