International dimensions of nursing and health care in baccalaureate and higher degree nursing programs in the United States

This study sought to determine if and how U.S. schools of nursing incorporate international dimensions of nursing and health care. A questionnaire mailed to 330 schools of nursing with accredited baccalaureate and higher degree programs resulted in a response rate of 69 per cent. Data were obtained on enrollment of international students, employment of faculty with previous international experience, inclusion of curricular content related to international dimensions of nursing and health care, and preparation of nurses to work in other countries. It was concluded that nursing education does not consistently provide nurses with a global view of nursing and health care. Students often graduate with little exposure or sensitization to international health concerns, including political, economic, environmental, social, and cultural conditions which impact on the health status of people in any country, and, in fact, all facets of the health care delivery system. The omission of such preparation seriously limits nursing's ability to work toward improving the health of all people in the world by the year 2000. Recommendations for further study suggest means for clarifying nursing's responsibilities in international health care.