Challenges and Opportunities Faced by Migrant Nurses in the Receiving Country: A Mixed-Methods Study on Cultural Adaptation and Professional Integration

Abstract

Aim

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the cultural adaptation and professional integration experiences of migrant nurses in the receiving country.

Design

A convergent parallel mixed methods design with concurrent sampling was employed.

Methods

Professional nurses who migrated from various Middle Eastern and North African countries, including Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Yemen, Jordan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, were enrolled. The Quantitative data was collected through an online questionnaire involving open-ended questions for the qualitative data. Data was collected from November 2023 to March 2024.

Findings

One hundred five nurses responded to the quantitative questionnaire, and 32 answered the open-ended questions. The findings revealed that mean scores for cultural competence and professional self-concept were 83.41 ± 12.90 and 76.28 ± 11.16, respectively. Migrant nurses experienced challenges such as language barriers (91.4%), social interaction (82.9%) and difficulties adapting to daily living activities (100%). The majority of them reported positive outcomes as better working conditions (91.4%), higher standard of living (89.5%) and professional development opportunities (94.3%). Nurses emphasised accepting cultural diversity, participating in cultural competency training, building relationships with local colleagues and utilising support mechanisms and mentorship for cultural adaptation.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the importance of support systems, cultural competency training and integration initiatives to facilitate successful adaptation and professional integration.

Implications for Profession

Orientation programs and cultural competency training should be developed to support migrant nurses. Initiatives should include language acquisition support, financial assistance for certification programs and promotion of diversity and inclusion in healthcare settings.

Impact

This study addressed the challenges migrant nurses face when transitioning to a new cultural and professional environment. It found that migrant nurses experience difficulties with language, social interaction and daily living activities. The research impacted healthcare institutions by guiding the development of orientation programs and cultural competency training, supporting policymakers in addressing systemic barriers and empowering migrant nurses with practical strategies for adaptation.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the Good Reporting of A Mixed Methods Study (GRAMMS).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.