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Workforce Development

How internationally educated nurses bridge cultures and enrich patient care

05 June 2025
Comment
02 June 2025
Volume 34 · Issue 11
diverse group of nurses

Abstract

Globalisation has led to increasingly multicultural patient populations and a healthcare workforce that is now more international than ever. In this globalised healthcare system, internationally educated nurses (IENs) are highly integral. Their mobility across borders often creates challenges but also opportunities (Moyce et al, 2016; Bond et al, 2020; Pressley et al, 2023; 2025).

Globalisation has led to increasingly multicultural patient populations and a healthcare workforce that is now more international than ever. In this globalised healthcare system, internationally educated nurses (IENs) are highly integral. Their mobility across borders often creates challenges but also opportunities (Moyce et al, 2016; Bond et al, 2020; Pressley et al, 2023; 2025).

As of 2024, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) reported that there are more than 200 000 internationally registered nurses and midwives in the UK, a number that continues to grow steadily (NMC, 2024). Although the primary impetus for encouraging their migration is to fill gaps in the nursing workforce, IENs bring with them a wealth of overseas experience that could enrich patient care and experiences (Alegado, 2024).

This article explores the unique contributions IENs make through transcultural nursing competence, global health perspectives and the diversity and representation they bring.

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