Decolonizing nursing for health equity: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Health Equity
• Social Justice

Background:

• The movement to decolonize nursing aims to combat institutional racism.
• The term "decolonizing nursing" risks becoming a buzzword without clear definition.
• Understanding decolonization is crucial for advancing health equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept of "decolonizing nursing."
• To examine how decolonizing nursing is discussed in research.
• To identify implemented decolonization projects and their relation to health equity.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted.
• Searches were performed in CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycINFO databases.
• Fifty-six records were included in the analysis.

Main Results:

• Decolonization encompasses resisting Western ideals and validating Indigenous knowledge.
• It also involves land and territory repatriation for Indigenous communities.
• Few studies empirically link decolonization or colonialism to specific health outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Decolonization is distinct from other social justice initiatives.
• Engaging with historical, interdisciplinary, and community-based research is key.
• This approach can inform policies, protect Indigenous territories, and promote health equity.