A Natural Part of Human Diversity.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Disability Studies
• Healthcare Inclusion

Background:

• Ableism in nursing education has historically excluded individuals with disabilities.
• Nursing profession has missed contributions from generations of nurses with disabilities.
• This issue addresses the need for greater inclusion of people with disabilities in nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore structures and processes for true inclusion of people with disabilities in nursing.
• To share personal accounts of nurses and students with disabilities.
• To examine varying degrees of inclusion for diverse disabilities in healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• Content experts discuss necessary accommodations, communication, leadership, design, technology, advocacy, and policy.
• Personal narratives from student learners and professional nurses with disabilities.
• Qualitative description methodology used to recruit participants with diverse experiences.

Main Results:

• Identifies systemic barriers and necessary components for inclusion in nursing education and practice.
• Provides insights into the lived experiences of nurses and students with various disabilities.
• Highlights examples of inclusion for individuals with achondroplasia, d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing students, and those with intellectual and multiple disabilities.

Conclusions:

• True inclusion of people with disabilities is essential for a richer nursing profession.
• Systemic changes in education, policy, and practice are required to support nurses with disabilities.
• Further research and advocacy are needed to dismantle ableism in nursing.