Migration in Chile: a new challenge for the formation of cultural competences in Nursing students

Abstract

In the last two decades Chile has increased its national immigration rate. The latest estimate determined that by the year 2014 2.3% of the national population will correspond to permanent migrants, doubling in the last 12 years. Given this scenario it is necessary that the training of nursing professionals is adapted in order to respond to the new social needs of the country and consequently to be able to provide care considering cultural diversity.
The text invites to reflect on the preparation that is given to nurses in training for the delivery of sensitive cultural care, through the acquisition of cultural skills. In the light of the evidence it is no easy task, including the development of cultural competitions in the various curricula it is an immeasurable challenge.
In the context of the curricular innovation of the Nursing career of the University of Chile, actions are being carried out aimed at the formation of cultural competitions through the implementation of a course. According to the perception of teachers and students the experience is satisfactory and necessary but still insufficient to achieve the expected objective.  It is undoubtedly essential that nurses develop cultural competencies. As teachers we have the opportunity to generate new strategies that contribute to the development of these and to create a model that allows progress in a management of care that is more equitable, inclusive and has cultural relevance.