Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in Nurse Anesthesia: Bridging the Gap

Author

Aminat Yusuff-AkinboFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Linda Sharpless

Project Team Faculty Member

Jerrica Ampadu

Keywords

Diversity, Equity, DEI, Nurse Anesthesia, Underrepresented, Minorities

Abstract

The nurse anesthetist plays a crucial role in the healthcare system. Through intensive training, they provide safe and effective anesthesia care to patients across various healthcare settings. Currently, the nurse anesthesia field lacks diversity, with underrepresentation of minority groups such as Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous individuals. The United States Census revealed that there are more than 325 million residents. Yet only 10.9% of nurse anesthetists are of diverse racial backgrounds. This lack of diversity limits the cultural perspectives and experiences brought to patient care and perpetuates disparities in healthcare outcomes. An increase in diversity can improve care for individuals and groups by increasing their awareness of the community’s health needs, their ability to provide personalized care, and their capacity to continuously learn to serve everyone in their community. Addressing this issue is essential for creating a more inclusive and representative workforce that can better meet the needs of diverse patient populations. By increasing awareness in the nurse anesthesia field, we can encourage dialogue, advocacy, and action to promote diversity and equity. Some strategies to raise awareness within the nurse anesthesia field are targeted outreach programs to underrepresented communities, collaboration with diversity-focused organizations, and promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives within educational and professional settings. Broadening awareness of the need for diversity in anesthesia practice can improve the overall delivery of healthcare to all ethnicities.

Recommended Citation

Yusuff-Akinbo, Aminat, "Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in Nurse Anesthesia: Bridging the Gap" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 318.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/318

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