Embracing global similarities: A framework for cross-cultural obstetric care

In this era of consistent global migration, cultural competency is necessary in all aspects of the care nurses provide to families. Cultural competency is particularly significant in maternal-newborn nursing because childbirth, as one of life's most significant events, is culturally shaped and socially constructed. In this article, a framework is provided to enable nurses to focus on several global phenomena and thus provide care that is more culturally sensitive, congruent with the client's needs, and competent. Suggestions for integrating cultural issues into nursing curricula are offered.