Reference no: EM133878496

Question

The implicit association test helped me to realize how subtle associations we make contribute to our implicit bias. These associations can be created by our experiences, education, and culture and is something that all healthcare professionals need to be on the lookout for. One implicit bias I have identified in my healthcare field is towards drug users. If a patient has tested positive for cocaine, opioids, or other drugs, healthcare professionals do not easily believe the patient when they say they are in pain and assume they are drug seeking.

As Yoder-Wise states, "The problem of implicit biases is that they innately influence health professionals without their knowledge and despite their best intentions" (Yoder-Wise, et al., 2023). Implicit bias gets in the way of equitable care and can even lead to health disparities. In the scenario of a patient who is known to be a drug user, the implicit bias of many health professionals prohibits them from providing therapeutic care and communication as they do not believe the pain of the patient and may even withhold medication to relieve pain.

In order to increase culture humility, nurse leaders and healthcare professionals should, "learn all we can about the concept of culture-our own and those of our clients" (Yoder-Wise, et al., 2023). One strategy nurse leaders may utilize is to listen to their staff by holding open, honest, and respectful communication about situations where implicit bias may have been demonstrated. This gives the opportunity for the individuals to self-reflect on their implicit bias and it offers a safe space to collaborate and develop strategies to prevent implicit bias from affecting the care of the patient.

Suggest an additional leadership or communication strategy that your peer could employ.

Provide a suggestion for how your peers could further integrate the concepts of acculturation, culture, cultural diversity, and/or cultural sensitivity in their leadership strategy.