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Dissertation
Exploring Implicit Bias In Nurses: A Phenomenological Study
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Apr 2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001569
Abstract
Implicit biases are unconscious stereotypes learned through past experiences. These unintended biases can lead to discrimination towards an individual or group of individuals based on traits such as race, gender, age or sexual orientation. In healthcare, implicit biases of healthcare professionals can impact decisions, communication, treatment, and overall patient care. Many studies discuss the impact of implicit bias in healthcare, but few studies explore implicit bias specifically in nurses. To improve implicit bias in healthcare, it is imperative to address the phenomenon in nurses. Nurses are essential members of the healthcare team. They spend the most time with patients, serve as patient advocates, and act as a conduit between the patient and the rest of the healthcare team. This phenomenological study explored nurses' experiences with implicit bias through semi-structured interviews and focus groups with nurses pursuing Masters degrees at a college of nursing and health professions. The following three questions were the focus of this study: 1) What general knowledge and understanding do nurses have regarding implicit bias 2) How do nurses observe and experience implicit bias in their workplace and 3) How do nurses describe/understand the relationship between bias education and training to implicit bias in the workplace. A total of 10 nurses participated in this study with four participating in a focus group and six participating in one-on-one interviews. The findings of this study revealed that implicit bias is pervasive in nursing and healthcare and exists in many forms. Implicit bias does not only exist toward patients, but also is experienced by nurses and healthcare professionals. The findings of this study highlighted the impact of implicit bias has on patient outcomes, and the work environment. Given the findings of the study, the recommendation is for nursing programs and healthcare organizations to develop a proactive, systematic approach to reducing implicit bias.
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Details
- Title
- Exploring Implicit Bias In Nurses
- Creators
- Kathryn T. Farrell
- Contributors
- Harriette Rasmussen (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- vii, 127 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991020419512004721