BARRIERS TO DELIVERY OF CULTURALLY COMPETENCE CARE AMONG NURSING STAFF WORKING IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN PESHAWAR

Abstract

Globalization, migration, and increased cultural diversity pose significant challenges to nursing practice and education worldwide, making culturally competent care essential. Cultural competency involves understanding and addressing patients' diverse cultural contexts to improve care and reduce health disparities. In regions like Pakistan, where cultural and linguistic diversity is pronounced, the need for effective transcultural nursing practices is particularly critical. However, barriers such as communication difficulties, language differences, and lack of proper training continue to hinder the provision of culturally sensitive care.This study employed a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design to explore barriers to culturally competent care among nurses in three tertiary hospitals in Peshawar, with a sample size of 313 nurses. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering demographic data, knowledge, and practice, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and SPSS to identify associations. Ethical considerations were maintained through institutional permissions, informed consent, and confidentiality assurances.The findings revealed that the majority of participants were aged 26–30 years (52.7%), predominantly female (76.0%), and mostly diploma-qualified (66.1%). More than half were married (55.91%), and most served as charge nurses (89.8%), reflecting a youthful, diploma-based workforce with significant family responsibilities. While participants acknowledged the importance of cultural competence, many expressed concerns about inadequate training and restrictive organizational policies that limit culturally appropriate care.The study concludes that prolonged nursing staff shortages, coupled with the challenge of balancing urgent needs with cultural considerations—particularly in trauma ICUs—significantly hinder the delivery of culturally competent care. Language barriers and insufficient communication training further obstruct culturally sensitive practice, underscoring the urgent need for sustained staffing, enhanced cultural competence education, and strong organizational support.