Emotional Intelligence on Cultural Competence among Nurses in Selected Hospitals in Ormoc City

The healthcare industry demands nurses who possess both emotional intelligence (EI) and cultural competence (CC) to effectively manage patient care in diverse clinical settings. However, gaps in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and proactive cultural application among nurses pose challenges to workplace relationships, patient satisfaction, and overall healthcare quality. This study aimed to assess the emotional intelligence and cultural competence of nurses in selected hospitals in Ormoc City, determine significant differences based on demographic and professional characteristics, and examine the relationship between EI and CC. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was employed, utilizing a 33-item Emotional Intelligence Scale and the Nurse Cultural Competence Scale (NCCS) to measure the two competencies. A sample of 208 registered nurses was drawn from four hospitals using proportionate random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results indicated that nurses exhibited moderate levels of EI and CC, with notable deficiencies in emotional regulation and self-directed cultural learning. Younger nurses had significantly higher EI and CC scores compared to older nurses. Nurses with Doctorate Degrees had lower EI and CC scores than those with bachelor’s and master’s Degrees. Nursing managers demonstrated lower EI and CC than staff nurses. A weak to moderate positive correlation was found between EI and CC, with the strongest relationship in the use of cultural resources, indicating that emotionally intelligent nurses were more likely to seek external support for culturally diverse patients. The findings are moderate and that no causation can be determined through a cross-sectional study. These findings highlight the need for continuous EI and CC training, mentorship programs, leadership development, and structured cultural competence workshops. Strengthening these competencies is crucial for improving patient care, enhancing workplace dynamics, and fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment in Ormoc City hospitals. Further research is recommended to explore longitudinal changes in EI and CC, the impact of training programs on nurse performance, and the role of digital learning tools in competency development and that longitudinal or experimental studies needed to better understand the relationships.