Published 2025-11-10
Keywords
- Cultural competence, cross-cultural nursing, international nursing, transcultural education, professional recognition, burnout, healthcare integration
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Abstract
BackgroundCultural competence is a foundational component of effective nursing care, shaping communication, patient outcomes, and professional satisfaction in increasingly diverse healthcare settings.
ObjectiveThis systematic review aimed to synthesize cross‐national and intercultural evidence on how culture affects nursing competence, work environments, burnout, professional recognition, and educational outcomes among nurses and nursing students.
MethodsFollowing PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 11 peer‐reviewed studies published between 2017 and 2025 were analyzed using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Searches across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science identified empirical studies comparing cultural influences on nursing in at least two national or cultural contexts. Narrative synthesis integrated statistical and thematic results.
ResultsCultural context significantly influenced nurses’ experiences, competence, and organizational integration. Training exposure, language proficiency, and inclusive work environments enhanced cultural competence and job satisfaction. European and transnational studies revealed persistent disparities in professional recognition and institutional support, while studies from Asia and the Middle East highlighted emotional exhaustion and adaptation challenges. Education-driven interventions effectively strengthened cultural awareness and empathy across cohorts.
ConclusionCultural competence in nursing is not only an ethical requirement but also a structural determinant of global healthcare quality. Strengthening transcultural education, leadership inclusivity, and international collaboration remains essential for sustainable nursing development.