Nursing Students’ Representations of Sexual Diversity: A Qualitative Analysis of Cultural Competence Development Using Narrative Photography

Abstract

Introduction: To address health disparities among LGBTIQ+ communities, nurses must demonstrate cultural competence. This study aims to explore nursing students’ perceptions of sexual diversity to enhance their cultural competence. Methods: A descriptive qualitative methodology was utilized with 48 first-year nursing students at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Spain). Students created narrative photographs with reflective quotes to illustrate their understanding sex, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Results: The thematic analysis of 62 images and reflections identified five themes: Recognizing diversity by expanding my cultural knowledge, Developing my cultural awareness, Gender and sexuality as cultural construction, Empathy as a bridge for transcultural care, and Becoming an ally. The findings indicate that students possess a strong understanding of LGBTIQ+ health issues and a commitment to fostering inclusive health care settings. Discussion: The study highlights the necessity of integrating LGBTIQ+ health content into nursing curricula to improve cultural competence and mitigate health disparities.