A Spanish Immersion Course With Simulations for Empowering Nursing Students to Develop Culturally Competent Care

Communication and cultural competency improve patient outcomes and reduce health disparities. Communication is a key skill in culturally competent care. However, most nursing students do not have the opportunity to practice nursing care in languages other than English during their education. An undergraduate elective nursing course integrates scaffolding simulations, cultural competency concepts, and technology-based Spanish-language learning tools to improve Spanish-language proficiency and enhance cultural competency for the care of Spanish-speaking patients. The course uses an innovative design to enhance students' capacity to promote health equity, deliver culturally competent care, and overcome language barriers.