Towards (re)conciliation: (re)constructing relationships between indigenous health workers and nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Indigenous Health
• Social Justice

Background:

• Colonization in Australia has led to human rights violations against Indigenous peoples.
• Australian nursing must address its historical role in the treatment of Aboriginal Australians.
• Professional relationships between nurses and Aboriginal health workers are vital for effective Indigenous health service delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore professional relationships between Aboriginal health workers and nurses.
• To develop insights for the Australian nursing profession's reconciliation process with Aboriginal Australians.
• To apply a feminist lens to understand these professional dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study design.
• Feminist analysis of narrative text.
• Exploration of professional relationships in Indigenous health contexts.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified: 'learning to know and understand', 'towards workplace equity', and 'skill sharing – learning from each other'.
• These themes are crucial for advancing reconciliation within Australian nursing.
• Understanding and valuing these relationships can improve health outcomes for Aboriginal communities.

Conclusions:

• The study provides insights for Australian nursing's reconciliation journey.
• Fostering equitable and collaborative relationships is essential for addressing historical injustices.
• Mutual learning and understanding between nurses and Aboriginal health workers are foundational for culturally safe healthcare.