Intentionality in reducing health disparities: Caring as connection

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Public Health
• Health Disparities Research

Background:

• Inadequate healthcare quality and racial/ethnic discrimination contribute to Native American health disparities.
• Nursing's focus on relationships and caring offers a unique perspective on understanding these disparities.
• Existing research often overlooks the crucial role of patient-nurse dynamics in health equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine health disparities experienced by Native Americans within the context of patient-nurse relationships.
• To explore nurses' perceptions and experiences with Native American patients.
• To identify factors influencing the quality of care and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive-qualitative research method was employed.
• Data were collected through interviews with eleven nurses serving Native American populations.
• Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes from the interview data.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: shared patient/nurse values, patient-centered care, external forces impacting care, and stereotype-driven care.
• Nurses' attitudes, the nature of meaningful relationships, and leadership influenced patient experiences.
• Stereotypes and external systemic factors were identified as significant barriers to equitable care.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare organizations must actively advocate for and sustain structures that support genuine caring relationships.
• Public health nursing requires intentional efforts to recognize and address implicit biases and ethnocentrism.
• Nurses must examine their roles in perpetuating racism and develop strategies to advocate for improved Native American health outcomes.