Cultural Adaptation and Support Resources among Filipino Migrant Nurses in a UK Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

Jezalyn O. Vargas; Cyril B. Romero; Jane M. Tagum-Briones

doi:10.56741/hesmed.v5i02.2580

Authors

Jezalyn O. Vargas University of Saint Anthony
Cyril B. Romero
cyrilbromero@gmail.com
University of Saint Anthony
Jane M. Tagum-Briones University of Saint Anthony

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56741/hesmed.v5i02.2580

Keywords:

Cultural Adaptation, Filipino Nurses, International Nurses, Migrant Nurses, Social Support, United Kingdom

Abstract

Internationally recruited nurses must adapt not only to new healthcare systems but also to unfamiliar cultural and social environments. This study examined cultural adaptation and support resources among Filipino migrant nurses employed at Darlington Memorial Hospital in the United Kingdom and explored associations with selected demographic and employment characteristics. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 26 Filipino nurses recruited through purposive sampling. Participants completed a self-developed, expert-validated questionnaire using a four-point Likert-type scale. The analysis focused on cultural adaptation and support system domains. Descriptive statistics and exploratory Pearson correlation analyses were performed. Participants reported generally favorable cultural adaptation (mean = 3.08). Managing cultural differences in the workplace received the highest rating (mean = 3.35), whereas participation in local community events was lowest (mean = 2.42). Perceived support resources were also favorable overall (mean = 3.11). Maintaining contact with family and friends in the Philippines received the highest rating (mean = 3.85), while access to housing assistance was lowest (mean = 2.46). Cultural adaptation was significantly associated with age (r = .55, p = .003), civil status (r = .64, p < .001), and length of service (r = .44, p = .026). Support resources were associated with age (r = .40, p = .041) and civil status (r = .58, p = .002). Findings suggest that workplace cultural adjustment may coexist with limited community integration and continued reliance on transnational family support. Targeted organizational support may facilitate broader adjustment.

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Author Biographies

Jezalyn O. Vargas, University of Saint Anthony

is a Philippine registered nurse and licensed teacher specializing in Biology. She worked as a Nurse Technician in Saudi Arabia and is a registered nurse in the United Kingdom, serving as a Staff Nurse at Darlington Memorial Hospital. She earned her Master of Arts in Nursing, major in Medical-Surgical Nursing, from the University of Saint Anthony in Iriga City, Philippines, combining clinical and educational expertise. (email: jezavargas19@gmail.com).

Cyril B. Romero, University of Saint Anthony

is a Professor at the Graduate School of the University of Saint Anthony, Philippines, and former Dean of its College of Nursing. She serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Peer-Reviewed Journal of Health Science and Medical Development (HESMED), Indonesia. Her academic interests include nursing education, healthcare management, medical research, and curriculum development. She has extensive experience in higher education leadership, research supervision, and scholarly publication. (email: romerocyrilb@gmail.com).

Jane M. Tagum-Briones, University of Saint Anthony

is a faculty member, Research Coordinator, and Program Head of the Master of Arts in Nursing at the University of Saint Anthony, Philippines. She holds dual licensure as a registered pharmacist and nurse. Her work focuses on graduate nursing education, curriculum development, and research mentoring, with extensive experience in guiding students and advancing scholarly work in healthcare education. (email: jbriones@usant.edu.ph).

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