Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing: The Pathway to Excellence Framework Alignment

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Behavior

Background:

• The nursing profession faces challenges in workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
• Recent events like the death of George Floyd and the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the importance of DEI in addressing health disparities.
• Existing literature on DEI in nursing reveals a scarcity of studies and limitations in evidence strength.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in nursing.
• To examine outcomes and strategies related to organizational DEI efforts.
• To explore how the American Nurses Credentialing Center Pathway to Excellence® Designation Program framework supports DEI initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of existing literature on DEI in nursing was conducted.
• Analysis of studies focusing on organizational DEI strategies and their outcomes.
• Examination of the American Nurses Credentialing Center Pathway to Excellence® Designation Program in relation to DEI.

Main Results:

• A significant scarcity of research was identified regarding DEI in nursing.
• The existing evidence base for DEI initiatives in nursing is limited in strength.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center Pathway to Excellence® Designation Program offers a framework that can support DEI efforts.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for more robust research on DEI in nursing.
• Nurse leaders can implement evidence-based strategies to enhance DEI within their organizations.
• Utilizing frameworks like the American Nurses Credentialing Center Pathway to Excellence® can guide DEI initiatives and foster a more inclusive nursing workforce.