Factors Influencing Cultural Awareness among Nursing Students in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Cultural awareness, the first step in developing cultural competence, involves recognizing and understanding the differences and similarities between cultures. This study was conducted to assess cultural awareness and to identify the factors influencing cultural awareness among nursing students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 480 nursing students participated in a cross-sectional survey and were recruited through purposive sampling from three nursing colleges in Northern India. Cultural awareness was assessed by the Cultural Awareness Scale. RESULTS: The mean score of cultural awareness among nursing students was (165.37±26.03). Factors such as gender, course of study, year of study, and received cultural education are significantly influencing the cultural awareness among nursing students. CONCLUSIONS: Nursing students exhibited moderate levels of cultural awareness, with variation across demographic characteristics. Incorporating structured cultural education into nursing curricula is essential to strengthen cultural competence and enhance patient-centered care. Future research should explore the impact of long-term educational interventions on cultural competence development.