Clinical's and cultural competence

[Mach0117]

Hi, my name is Chris and I am in my final year as a BSN student, I am currently going to nursing school in San Juan, Puerto Rico. I am from Minnesota but speak both spanish and english fluently. My clinical experiences have been good, I have seen a lot and been able to learn a lot throughout my years, but I am nervous about going back to the states and working after having only dealt with Puerto Rican patients. I am nervous due to the fact that in school we are taught so much about cultural competence, yet I have honestly only dealt with puerto rican patients. Is it difficult to adapt your nursing ways to each culture/person?

[BluegrassRN]

The fact that you are aware that there will be cultural differences makes all the difference, I think. You will do just fine.

[chinacatSN]

Also - the fact that you are from Minnesota will make it easier for you to adapt when you come back into the States. I'm sure it would be much more difficult if you had only lived in Puerto Rico your entire life and planned on moving to the States. I think you'll be fine!