Advances in Conceptualization of Cultural Care and Cultural Competence in Nursing: An Initial Assessment

Abstract

This article reviews advances in conceptualization of cultural care and cultural competence in the nursing literature. First, three evaluative criteria are set forth (i.e., practice, education, and research). Second, the published conceptualizations of cultural care and cultural competence are assessed based on the three criteria. The review suggests that conceptualizations of cultural care and cultural competence have made noted progress in the past few decades both in quantitative and qualitative terms. Based on this initial assessment, areas for further development are suggested to facilitate the continued advances in conceptualization of cultural care and cultural competence in the future.