Abstract
"Cultural diversity" is a nursing education buzz word. Many facilities are adding cultural care competencies and learning experiences to the orientation curriculum. Designing a program to assist nurses to increase their knowledge of cultural issues should be based on a solid theoretical framework and adult learning theories in order to promote a higher level of critical thinking. In this article, the author explains the planning, development, and implementation of such a learning experience.
Cape Fear Valley Health System (CFVHS) uses a competency-based orientation curriculum to promote and to validate a minimum level of understanding and performance of nursing duties within the institution. The competency-based orientation consists of a 1-month program that includes basic skills, anatomy and physiology, policy and procedures, and clinical practicum performance. New employees are expected to accomplish key program outcomes by the completion of the program. This article addresses the specific program outcome described below regarding cultural care:
The staff nurse will be able to distinguish cultural needs through the use of a cultural assessment allowing the provision of culturally appropriate care to a variety of clients and families.
The primary goal of the learning experience is to enable new employees to accomplish this program outcome.