Providing Culturally Sensitive Nursing Care for Vulnerable Immigrant Populations

Vulnerable immigrant populations require culturally sensitive nursing care that shows respect for their beliefs and values, and fosters trusting relationships by allowing the time required to communicate in their language of origin. Transcultural Nursing Theory (Leininger & McFarland, 2002) provides a philosophical foundation for nursing care of immigrant populations. Harsh political policies involving undocumented immigrants can erode trust and cause fear of all U.S. institutions, including the health-care system. Separating families in an effort to deter entry into the United States without documentation can lead to detrimental effects on the children (Perreira & Pedroza, 2019). The American Nurses Association's (2015) addresses the protection of vulnerable populations.