Perspectives of nursing students regarding racial implicit bias

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Shirley Etienne (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Susan Letvak

Abstract: Racial implicit bias is defined as prejudiced notions based on unconscious attitudes and stereotypes founded on race. In addition, implicit bias has the ability to influence one’s behavior, affect, thinking, and judgement (FitzGerald & Hurst, 2017; Maina et al., 2018). Racial implicit bias remains as a contributing factor to healthcare disparities as morbidity and mortality rates among minority may increase when minority patients perceive the healthcare experience as discriminatory and or negative (Forsyth et al., 2014; Hagiwara et al., 2013; Haywood et al., 2014). Although, nursing students are preparing to become frontline healthcare providers, there are few racial implicit bias studies that include nursing students. The purpose of this study was to describe the perspectives of nursing students regarding racial implicit bias against minority patients and its impact on patient care. Using a qualitative descriptive methodology, the perspectives of the participants were attained through focus groups. Participants were recruited from two Historically Black College or University (HBCU), a state university, and a community college. Using semi-structured questions, guided by the Levels of Racism framework, five focus groups were held, totaling 25 participants. After thematic analysis of the interview transcripts, two themes were revealed. Theme 1: Some were not certain, but all certainly recognized discrimination, and were angered. Theme 2: Reflection brings emotion and increased awareness of discrimination. Implications for practice, education, research, and theory within the nursing discipline are presented.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 2020
Keywords
Minority patients, Nursing students, Racial implicit bias
Subjects
Nursing students
Nursing $x Study and teaching
Race discrimination
Patient $x Care

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