Nurse Altagracia, a Geriatrics and Nursing Home Assistant Director of Nursing, believed that diversity is essential in nursing and that nurses must be informed about and understand all cultures in order to provide the best care possible.

Q: TRUE or FALSE: “Nurses eat their young.” 

A: It breaks my heart that this is still valid... I was an LPN for years. After my sons were done with high school I decided to get my RN. I dealt with a preceptor at a local hospital that was a nightmare. I truly wish the hospital had the time and funds to give hospitality training. I was seasoned as a nurse and that did give me the strength to go and move on. .. unfortunately this can deter and discourage new nurses.

Altagracia Perceval MSN, BSN, RN

Q:  What is your specialty and where are you based? 

A: Currently Geriatrics and Nursing Home Assistant Director of Nursing Traveling .

Q: What does cultural competence mean for healthcare providers?

A: It is crucial because diversity is 100% in nursing.We have to understand all cultures in order to respect our demographics and give the best care possible. We also have diversity with our nurses. We must stay informed.

Q: What is your experience with nurse unions?

A: I worked in NY for 2years , 1199 was awesome. Otherwise no unions are in my current area.

Q: Before working in your current role, what was your nursing career path?

A: Teaching was my original career path , but everything worked out. I also teach as a Clinical Nurse Educator.