Bridging the Gap: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis of the Value of Developmental Disabilities Nurses

To explore how developmental disabilities nurses conceptualise their specialty's contribution to health and well-being.

Qualitative study informed by critical realism and reflexive thematic analysis.

Eighteen experienced developmental disabilities nurses recruited at the 2023 Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association conference completed semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis.

Participants described developmental disabilities nursing as bridging the gap between people with developmental disabilities and care systems. This bridge integrated embodied values, specialist expertise and person-centered knowing and connecting throughout the nursing process. Key activities included figuring it out, aggressive advocacy, cultivating understanding and care planning and oversight, helping ensure nothing fell through the cracks and supporting longer, fuller lives.

Developmental disabilities nursing integrates specialist expertise, values and person-centered care to bridge fragmented systems and address health inequities.

Education and workforce development should recognise and strengthen developmental disabilities nurses' specialist contributions. WHAT PROBLEM DID THE STUDY ADDRESS?: This is the first empirical US study examining how developmental disabilities nurses conceptualise their specialty's contribution. WHAT WERE THE MAIN FINDINGS?: Developmental disabilities nurses bridge fragmented systems through specialist expertise, embodied values, person-centered care and distinctive nursing interventions. WHERE AND ON WHOM WILL THE RESEARCH HAVE AN IMPACT?: Findings inform nurses, educators, organisations, policymakers, researchers, people with developmental disabilities and families.

This study adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research and was informed by the Reflexive Thematic Analysis Reporting Guidelines.

Theme development was refined through professional dialogue with Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association members during an interactive conference presentation and optional survey.