"You have to strive very hard to prove yourself": experiences of Black nursing students in a Western Canadian province

Abstract

Objectives: This study explored the experiences of Black students in two western Canadian undergraduate nursing programs.

Methods: Using a qualitative focused ethnography design grounded in critical race theory and intersectionality, participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected through individual interviews, and a follow-up focus group. Data were analyzed using collaborative-thematic analysis team approaches.

Results: n=18 current and former students participated. Five themes emerged: systemic racism in nursing, precarious immigrant context, mental health/well-being concerns, coping mechanisms, and suggestions for improvement.

Conclusions: An improved understanding of Black student experiences can inform their recruitment and retention. Supporting Black students' success can potentially improve equity, diversity, and inclusivity in nursing education programs and/or their representation in the Canadian nursing workforce.

Implications for an international audience: The presence of a diverse nursing profession is imperative to meet the needs to provide more quality and culturally competent services to diverse population.

Keywords: Black nursing students; barriers to success; coping strategies; mental health and well-being; systemic anti-Black racism; unconscious bias.