Culturally sensitive communication in healthcare: a concept analysis

Background: Limited guidance exists on culturally sensitive communication related to interactions between clinicians, patients and families. Objectives: To explore the concept of culturally sensitive communication and identify clinical practice implications and knowledge gaps related to culturally sensitive communication in healthcare. Methods: A concept analysis was undertaken, using Walker and Avant's (2011) framework which comprises eight consecutive steps to explore the concept and clinical practice implications. A systematic literature search was undertaken to identify papers published between January 1, 1995 and December 20, 2017, leading to the inclusion of 37 relevant research papers in the concept analysis. Results: Based on the research literature, examples of model, borderline and contrary cases of culturally sensitive communication were developed. Three major uses of culturally sensitive communication were identified, including understanding one's own culture, open and sensitive communication, and strategies to collaborate with the patient and family for optimal patient care. An awareness of one's own cultural beliefs, values, attitudes and practices was identified as an essential first step before learning about other cultures. This awareness includes being sensitive and adaptive to individual cultural differences and relies on clinician self-understanding and reflection. Strategies to collaborate with the patient and family for patient care include respectful and supportive clinician interactions with the family that enable a collaborative approach to care. Conclusions: This concept analysis aids understanding of culturally sensitive communication, the benefits and challenges associated with its use, and clinical practice implications.