Caring Across Cultures: A Cross-Sectional Study of Cultural Competence Among Nurses in Norway

INTRODUCTION: Cultural competence is essential for equitable, safe, and person-centered care in diverse populations. Nurses need to develop cultural understanding and abilities to provide culturally competent care. This study aimed to describe cultural competence among nurses working in somatic hospitals and investigate associations between demographic characteristics, knowledge and experience, self-efficacy, and cultural competence of nurses. METHOD: An online survey on nurses' cultural competence was conducted with 201 nurses from three hospitals in Norway. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations between demographic characteristics, knowledge, and self-efficacy with cultural competence. RESULTS: Significant associations were identified between age, gender, birthplace, international experience, and hospital affiliation with dimensions of cultural competence. Knowledge and self-efficacy of nurses were identified as critical factors positively associated with cultural competence. DISCUSSION: Demographic factors influence nurses' cultural competence and underline the importance of tailored training. Promoting knowledge and self-efficacy can improve culturally congruent care.