Conference

Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science

Document Type

Poster

Date

9-15-2022

Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this participatory action quality improvement project was to identify challenges and member-driven solutions to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in a regional nursing research society (RNRS).

Methods: This project adhered to a quality improvement (QI) framework and drew on strategies used in participatory action research to collect data on member-identified organizational practices that support and/or limit DEI within the RNRS, and member-generated solutions to enhance DEI within the society. The QI team consisted of RNRS members serving on a DEI Task Force and members with qualitative methods expertise. The team conducted focus groups during the society’s annual meeting and collected quantitative and qualitative data using a cross-sectional survey sent to all society members following the annual meeting.

Results: Preliminary findings of this project in progress (PIP) indicate membership willingness to identify DEI issues and potential organizational solutions. Preliminary focus group data demonstrated members’ desires to encourage and support underrepresented members of the society. Potential solutions suggested by membership included creating mechanisms for financial support of underrepresented current/prospective members, increasing transparency in executive board decision-making, and creating more robust mechanisms for new member orientation and existing member professional development through a formal mentorship program.

Conclusions: This PIP provides an exemplar of nursing research societies’ potential capacity to engage members in efforts to enhance organizational DEI. Efforts to create regional nursing research societies that are more inclusive and more accurately reflect the broader population is an important first step in supporting research on social and structural determinants of health.

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