Embracing Our Differences: Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Through Perioperative Nursing Education

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Surgical Patient Outcomes
• Health Equity

Background:

• Health disparities persist for certain patient populations, negatively impacting their health outcomes and access to quality care.
• Unconscious (implicit) bias among healthcare professionals can lead to unintentional discrimination against marginalized groups.
• A focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is crucial for patient safety and improving health outcomes in surgical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical role of DEI in healthcare systems.
• To highlight the negative impact of disparities and unconscious bias on patient populations.
• To advocate for the development of inclusive workplace cultures and educational strategies.

Main Methods:

• Implementing strategies to educate and empower clinicians on DEI principles.
• Developing educational offerings using a framework and varied strategies.
• Utilizing methods such as listening tours, computer-based learning, simulations, and book clubs.

Main Results:

• Recognizing the importance of a DEI-committed workplace culture.
• Empowering clinicians through education to embrace DEI initiatives.
• Engaging teams to optimize the health and well-being of diverse surgical populations.

Conclusions:

• A strong focus on DEI is essential for patient safety and equitable health outcomes in surgery.
• Healthcare organizations must actively combat unconscious bias through targeted education and cultural change.
• Comprehensive DEI strategies are necessary to address health disparities and improve care for all communities.