Acculturation Program for Texas Newcomers?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

We have noticed some common workplace ssues that seem to be cropping up among nurses that have relocated to Tx due to lack of jobs in their home states.

Our culture can be very different - saying "good morning" or "hello" to everyone for instance. Newcomers may come across as surly or in a bad mood when they really aren't. We call people 'hon' without meaning it to have any sexual innuendo. We tend to be huggers. And there's lots more.... All in all, responses can range from vague discomfort to out and out shock.

Lack of union 'backup' seems to be uncomfortable also - especially for people who feel very vulnerable after having experienced their jobs disappear. We stress individual accountability beginning with orientation. For example - experienced (newcomer) nurse is asked to complete some training/development to flesh out skill gaps identified during orientation. The nurse was very defensive and assumed that the organization was building a case for termination - stated that no one was on her 'side' and there was no one to complain to. Although I don't have any experience in a union environment, I imagine it may be uncomfortable to have to deal directly with the supervisors & managers rather than with a safer (?) union representative whose job is to be on your side.

Newcomers may be in fairly desperate financial situations. This is completely understandable if they were out of work for some time before taking the drastic steps needed to uproot their family and move across the country for a job. They may have problems finding adequate housing if their credit rating isn't what it used to be. They may need to get another car since our cities aren't really known for good public transportation.

They're dealing with a host of family problems - not unexpected. Kids trying to settle into a new school. Lack of family support nearby, etc.

I was just wondering if anyone else has noticed these types of issues - and how are you helping our newcomers to cope with them. I believe that they deserve at least the same compassion and caring that we provide to patients. Any ideas? Observations?