Learning Objective #1: Understand culturally competent nursing care practices to indigenous populations

Learning Objective #2: Describe the recruitment/retention of indigenous nursing students

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Health disparities are major concerns among indigenous populations within the United States (US). The nursing shortage will continue to impact health care to indigenous populations and the existing health disparities will continue to increase. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services report that only .5% of the total US population are self-identified as indigenous nurses. These nurses serve 4.1 million indigenous people; a population that is growing at a rate of 2% per year. The following selected statistics demonstrate the alarming health disparities that exist among indigenous populations:

Infant mortality rate of 1.5x higher than Whites Diabetes 2x the total population Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death Mortality/injuries related to alcohol and substance abuse exceed the rates of other populations HIV/AIDS steadily increasing at alarming rates. Many health related statistics for indigenous people are not recorded or noted.

These health issues alone indicate the need for nursing care that is culturally competent and cultural specific. Theoretical models have been developed and published that discuss research, educational and practice issues/concepts related to these populations. Presently, a pilot study is being conducted that utilizes an exemplar multiple case-study design that will continue to define and validate concepts related to cultural competent nursing practice to these indigenous populations. The findings will continue to provide valuable information on how to integrate indigenous life-ways, traditional healing practices into the western modalities of contemporary health care.