First Advisor

Parker, Carlo G.

First Committee Member

Aldridge, Michael D.

Second Committee Member

Copeland, Darcy A.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Document Type

Dissertation

Date Created

8-2024

Department

College of Natural and Health Sciences, Nursing, Nursing Student Work

Abstract

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) estimated about 24% of adults in the United States live with a disability. However, the literature suggested only 4.4% of healthcare workers reported having a disability in the United States. Stigmatization and ableism have likely led to nurses hiding their disabilities while practicing, creating less diversity and representation in practice. When healthcare workers have little resemblance to the population they serve, it can lead to distrust, uncaring behaviors, and feelings of exclusion. Increasing diversity and helping to recognize the value of disability in practice could begin in nursing school. This study aimed to explore the varying degrees of ableism pre-licensure nursing students with disabilities experienced while in school. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed for reoccurring themes. Five themes were validated through member-checking and peer review: (a) shared perception of disability, (b) navigating the complexities of disability identity, (c) obstacles to accommodations, (d) insufficient focus on clinical accommodations, and (e) empathy for patients. The findings revealed most participants experienced internalized ableism, conscious or unconscious negative beliefs about their disabilities. Different types of disabilities experienced different levels of ableism; mental health disabilities were less likely to be disclosed than others. Formal clinical accommodations were poorly understood and despite a possible need, none of the participants had accommodations for the clinical setting. The participants’ experiences highlighted the need for nursing schools to consider developing systems to ensure students receive proper accommodations for safe patient care.

Abstract Format

html

Extent

169 pages

Local Identifiers

Brox_unco_0161D_11242.pdf

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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