Cultural intelligence and migration intentions among nursing and midwifery students in southeastern region of Turkey: A correlational study

Abstract

Aim: This study explores the relationship between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate among nursing and midwifery students. Methods: Using a correlational design, data were collected from 804 students through the Student Descriptive Form, The Attitude Scale for Brain Drain in Nursing Students and the Cultural Intelligence Scale. The analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics and AMOS, employing structural equation modelling and analysis of variance. Results: The majority of participants were female (84.8%) and Turkish citizens (89.1%). The findings showed that both cultural intelligence levels and attitudes towards brain drain were above average. A positive correlation was identified between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate. Conclusion: Enhancing cultural intelligence through intercultural education, overseas experiences and multilingual proficiency is essential. The study underscores the critical need for policy reforms aimed at improving working conditions in low-income countries and addressing the challenges posed by the intention to migrate. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: Incorporating cultural intelligence training into nursing and midwifery curricula is essential for preparing students to work in multicultural healthcare settings. Educational reforms are needed to equip future healthcare professionals with the skills required for diverse patient care. Additionally, policy interventions aimed at improving working conditions and offering better incentives in low-income regions are critical to mitigating brain drain by addressing the root causes of migration among skilled healthcare workers. Impact: The study underscores the role of cultural intelligence in shaping the migration intentions of nursing and midwifery students. It highlights how higher levels of cultural intelligence correlate with more positive attitudes towards migration, suggesting that culturally adept healthcare professionals may be more inclined to seek international opportunities. Reporting Method: This study adhered to the STROBE guidelines for reporting observational studies. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Advanced Nursing published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.