Evaluation of the Culturally Competent Nursing Modules
Abstract
The dramatic aging of the U.S. population and the growing proportion of racial and ethnic minority groups are two factors that continue to increase the urgency of addressing health disparities (State of Aging and Health in America [SAHA], 2007). With 40% of the U.S. population currently consisting of either immigrants or first-generation Americans, it is imperative that healthcare facilities provide cultural competence training for their nurses to ensure that all patients receive quality care(Hascup,2010). Recognizing cultural diversity integrating cultural knowledge, and acting in a culturally appropriate manner enables nurses to be more effective in initiating nursing assessments and serving as client advocates (American Nurses Association [ANA], 1991). The purpose of this project is to evaluate the Culturally Competent Nursing Modules commissioned by the Office of Minority Health, as an effective program for increasing cultural awareness in a long term care facility. Findings from this program evaluation indicate that the Culturally Competent Nursing Modules can facilitate increased cultural awareness among nurses in a long term care facility.