Beyond challenges and enrichment: a qualitative account of cross-cultural experiences of nursing patients with an ethnic minority background in Norway

Abstract Background Substantial mass migrations to the Scandinavian countries have made them heterogeneous and multicultural societies. Migration has also influenced the workforce, especially the healthcare system that has had to accommodate a culturally diverse population. This qualitative study aimed to explore nurses’ experiences in caring for patients with an ethnic minority background. Methods Focus group interviews with a total of 21 nurses were conducted. Thematic analysis was performed on the transcribed and translated interviews. Results The findings of this study revealed three major themes: various experiences concerning language barriers and the use of interpreters, the impact o…