Pharmacy students' perceptions of cultural competence encounters during practice experiences

Am J Pharm Educ. 2014 Mar 12;78(2):31. doi: 10.5688/ajpe78231.

Abstract

Objective: To determine pharmacy students' perceptions regarding cultural competence training, cross-cultural experiences during advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs), and perceived comfort levels with various cultural encounters.

Methods: Fourth-year pharmacy (P4) students were asked to complete a questionnaire at the end of their fourth APPE.

Results: Fifty-two of 124 respondents (31.9%) reported having 1 or more cultural competence events during their APPEs, the most common of which was caring for a patient with limited English proficiency.

Conclusion: Students reported high levels of comfort with specific types of cultural encounters (disabilities, sexuality, financial barriers, mental health), but reported to be less comfortable in other situations.

Keywords: advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE); assessment; cultural competence; cultural competence training.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Cultural Competency*
  • Education, Pharmacy*
  • Educational Measurement
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Perception*
  • Students, Pharmacy*