Nursing the Nuu-chah-nulth Way: Communities Driving Nursing Policy Priorities

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Health
• Nursing Practice
• Rural Healthcare

Background:

• Rural and remote Indigenous communities face unique healthcare challenges.
• Sustainable funding and a resourced nursing workforce are crucial for Indigenous health needs and aspirations.
• Distinct nursing practices require community-driven solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Indigenous systems of care in three distinct communities.
• To identify obstacles and advance nursing and healthcare delivery based on community values and influences.
• To understand community needs for resourcing, education, and program priority setting in nursing.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Indigenous research methodologies.
• Employed a community-engaged research approach with three Indigenous communities.
• Conducted collaborative analysis to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Identified themes related to resourcing nursing positions.
• Highlighted the importance of supporting nursing education and valuing nursing influence in program priorities.
• Emphasized the power of community voice in research for advocacy and program design.

Conclusions:

• Community-driven research is essential for advocating for nurses and designing programs aligned with community health visions.
• Nurse leaders play a vital role in policy and program redesign for health and social justice.
• Implications for nursing leadership in diverse settings are crucial for sustaining a culturally safe, wellness-focused nursing workforce.