The effect of nursing students' empathic tendencies on their cultural intelligence: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: In multicultural societies, nursing students' ability to provide holistic healthcare is significantly influenced by their level of cultural intelligence and empathic tendencies. Understanding these relationships is essential for improving healthcare practice in diverse settings. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of empathic tendencies on cultural intelligence among nursing students. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted with 571 volunteer nursing students between March and April 2024. We used three data collection tools: the Descriptive Characteristics Form, the Empathy Tendency Scale (ETS), and the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CIS). Then, we analysed the data with descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression Results: The nursing students' mean age was 21.34 +/- 2.44 years, with 62.3% female and 33.6% first-year students. The mean scores for cultural intelligence and empathic tendency were 71.22 +/- 10.72 and 66.39 +/- 6.70, respectively. It was found that the average ETS score positively predicted the average CIS score (p < 0.05). Additionally, being female had a negative effect on the CIS score. Having a foreign friend and knowing a foreign language were positive predictors of the CIS score (F = 11.262, p < 0.001). Discussion: The results of the research show that both cultural intelligence and empathic tendencies of nursing students are at medium levels. Additionally, promoting empathy in nursing education may improve students' ability to effectively deal with cultural diversity, given the positive correlation between empathic tendencies and cultural intelligence. Conclusion: According to the study findings, the empathic tendency level of nursing students positively predicts the level of cultural intelligence. Therefore, it is recommended that programmes that enhance these skills be included in nursing curricula to improve culturally competent care in diverse healthcare settings. (c) 2025 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.