Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 9, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Nursing and Disability: Examining the Equity of Nurse Practice Acts
Ashley Velez1, Lindsay Tessmer2, Holly Meyer PhD1
1University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Background:
Many individuals with disabilities face challenges in education and employment despite having legal protection. This study examined laws governing nursing and education, focusing on how they affect individuals with disabilities pursuing nursing careers.
Method:
Using the READ document analysis approach, we reviewed state nurse practice acts across the United States.
Results:
Ten states included accommodations or anti-discrimination language. In comparison, 34 states had language that could exclude persons with disabilities without any mention of accommodation, and 10 states had no laws with language about disabilities or accommodations.
Conclusion:
The lack of specific language in laws may lead to discrimination for persons with disabilities attempting to enter nursing education due to various interpretations of the law. Nursing education should adopt inclusive standards for admission and outcome measures for nursing students. Regulatory bodies should adopt more specific and inclusive language in their laws.
Related Concept Videos
Standards of Care I
Standards of Care II
Ethical Standards I
The Code of Ethics provisions outline the nurse's duty to the patient, the healthcare team, the profession, and society. The Code's fundamental principles include advocacy,...
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities II
Communication between nurses and...
Nursing Code of Ethics
Nursing Ethical Principles I
Autonomy
Autonomy underscores the significance of a patient's self-determination and freedom from external control. In healthcare, respecting...

