Introduction
Nursing schools across the nation are intensifying their efforts to promote anti-racism in medical education. However, as Kenya Beard, EdD, a commissioner for the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing, emphasizes, it is crucial to cultivate inclusivity before striving for diversity. This foundation is essential for fostering health equity in the nursing profession.
The Need for Inclusivity
“We need to recognize the need for greater acceptance of difference,” Beard asserted on the Healthcare Strategies podcast. She highlighted that inclusivity entered the discourse after diversity, emphasizing that while diversity focuses on representation, inclusivity ensures a supportive environment for all.
Racism in Healthcare
Despite efforts to promote health equity, the healthcare industry continues to grapple with significant racism and discrimination issues. A February 2024 poll from KFF revealed that one-third of Americans perceive racism as a problem in healthcare. Furthermore, 60% of Black patients and 43% of Hispanic patients reported experiencing racism or discrimination in healthcare in the past year.
The issue extends to healthcare professionals as well. Nearly two-thirds of nurses have faced racism in the workplace, with a staggering 92% of Black nurses reporting such experiences, according to a 2022 survey by the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing.
Commitment to Anti-Racism Education
In recent years, the healthcare industry has acknowledged its discrimination problem, focusing on medical education as a key area for promoting anti-racism. However, Beard suggests there is still much room for improvement. “Despite progress, some nurses still face repercussions for addressing racism openly,” she noted. Some institutions claim to value diversity but maintain policies that contradict this assertion.
For example, certain nursing programs may promote equitable and diverse recruitment while still requiring standardized tests that favor affluent applicants. More nursing schools are dropping these requirements, with the American Nurses Association (ANA) advocating for this change. However, true cultural growth towards inclusivity is still needed.
Challenges in Nursing Schools
The adverse effects of inadequately addressing inclusivity are evident. Nurses continue to report workplace racism and discrimination. A 2024 report from the Commonwealth Fund found that nearly half of younger healthcare workers feared retaliation for reporting workplace discrimination, and many avoided speaking up during training sessions.
A 2022 report also indicated that Black nurses are twice as likely as white nurses to plan on leaving the field, with emotional distress being a primary reason. These issues underscore the need for a deeper focus on inclusivity and psychological safety in nursing education.
Strategies for Effective Anti-Racism
Preparing the Ground
Beard advocates for a comprehensive approach to promoting anti-racism in nursing schools. “You’ve got to prepare the ground before planting the seeds,” she advised. This involves a three-tiered perspective: “me,” “you,” and “us.”
The “Me” Level
Individuals within the nursing school system must engage in deep self-reflection. They need to address their fears, identify the knowledge they require, and plan how to overcome challenges and celebrate successes.
The “You” Level
On this level, individuals should identify partners in their anti-racism journey. Learning from others and providing assistance is crucial for personal and professional growth.
The “Us” Level
Nursing schools must extend their missions to society. Sharing power and integrating diverse perspectives are vital for creating an inclusive environment. Schools should embed their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts into policies, practices, and curricula. Developing a 360-degree framework for measurement and evaluation is essential to gauge progress.
“We measure what’s important,” Beard stressed. “End-of-year evaluations, 360-degree assessments, and continuous evaluation of inherited policies are necessary to ensure educational equity.”
Conclusion
The journey to anti-racism in nursing schools is ongoing. Preparing the groundwork through inclusivity, self-reflection, partnership, and comprehensive evaluation is vital for fostering a supportive and equitable environment. By adopting these strategies, nursing schools can better promote health equity and support their students and professionals in addressing racism in healthcare.
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FAQs
Q: Why is inclusivity important before diversity in nursing schools?
A: Inclusivity ensures a supportive environment for diverse individuals, allowing them to thrive and contribute effectively.
Q: How does racism affect healthcare professionals?
A: Racism leads to emotional distress, psychological safety issues, and higher turnover rates among healthcare professionals.
Q: What are some strategies for promoting anti-racism in nursing schools?
A: Strategies include deep self-reflection, partnership with others, and comprehensive evaluation of DEI efforts.
Q: Why are standardized testing requirements an issue for diversity in nursing programs?
A: These requirements often favor affluent applicants, hindering equitable recruitment and representation.
Q: What is a 360-degree framework for measurement and evaluation?
A: It is a comprehensive assessment approach that evaluates DEI efforts from multiple perspectives to ensure progress and accountability.
