Discussion- Defining Culturalism

Multiculturalism refers to the capacity of different cultures to coexist within a particular context without having to give up their identities (Shepherd et al., 2019). Within a healthcare setting, multiculturalism is crucial because people from various cultural backgrounds are involved. Nurse leaders can cultivate multiculturalism by having intercultural mediators within the healthcare facility. Training nurses on cultural competence may also contribute significantly towards multiculturalism.

Cross-culturalism refers to the capacity of people from different cultures to interact effectively. It involves the recognition of cultural differences and desiring to bridge them (Pereda & Montoya, 2018). One of the ways that nurse leaders can enhance cross-culturalism within the healthcare facility is through communication. Using a language that is understood by parties from different cultures establishes commonality that can be a basis for healthcare delivery (Pereda & Montoya, 2018). Having interpreters may also help make this possible in instances where linguistic fluency is lacking.

Transculturalism is the identification of shared beliefs and practices across cultures. When people identify commonalities in their cultures, they are more likely to overlook their differences and collaborate (Albougami, Pounds, & Alotaibi, 2016). Nurse leaders can transculturalism in several ways, for example by encouraging and facilitating nurses in developing cultural competence. Nurse leaders can also have cultural brokers who are knowledgeable on different cultures who will help nurses identify shared beliefs with clients.