PERCEPTION OF ENVIRONMENT IN NURSING PRACTICUM: PRACTICAL SUBJECTS THAT PROMOTE CULTURAL COMPETENCE OF NURSING STUDENTS AT PRACHOMKLAO COLLEGE OF NURSING, PHETCHABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This survey research examined perceptions of nursing students on environment in nursing practicum that promote cultural competence at Prachomklao College of Nursing in Phetchaburi Province . The sample was 296 nursing students comprised of 88 of second year, 91 of third year, and 117 of fourth year who enrolled in the academic year 2015. These students had experiences on nursing practicum for at least one year. The questionnaire include student profile and the environment that enhances cultural competency in nursing practicum. Majority of sample was female (94.93%), mean age 21.34 years, all were single, Buddhist and had friends of other races and religions (12%). Patients received care in this study were mostly Thai Buddhists. Most students had direct experience with culturally diverse patients by giving care to them in two nursing courses ‘Principles and Techniques in Nursing Practicum ’ and ‘ the Nursing Care of Persons with Health Problems Practicum. Data analysis showed that student perceptions on nursing practicum environment that enhances cultural competency was at a moderate level mean = 3.21 (S.D. = .46). The highest score was on ‘ the instructor’ s provision of supports to students to learn with patients or clients ’ mean =3.28 (S.D. = .63). In contrary, the lowest score was “the instructor’ s expression of frustration or dissatisfaction during the cultural issue discussion” mean = 3. 12 (S.D. = .46). These findings provides support for the approach to enhance nursing students on cultural competency during nursing practicum.