1. Introduction

Why is cultural awareness important for nursing care?

International migration and worldwide mobility of health professionals and client groups is a growing phenomenon affecting global health and health care systems.

Being aware of cultural differences is critical to reduce health disparities and inequalities, also to promote inclusion and support better patient experience and outcomes. Transcultural care is therefore a key component in healthcare and an essential requirement for all health professionals.

In order to be culturally competent in their practice, today's nurses need to be aware of diversity within their unique populations and the individual needs of their patients and clients.

The landscape of nurse education is continually changing to meet demands of health care providers and recipients. The concept of transcultural care within nursing demands that we do not treat all patients the same, but have the ability to recognise and understand cultural differences in order to provide unique effective and appropriate person-centred care.