It's important for CNOs to refocus on why diversity is critical in the nursing profession.
Since the beginning of the year, stark criticism and negative connotations of the concept of DEI has swept throughout the country, pushed largely by the Trump Administration and their constituents.
But here’s the truth no one can scrub from a statute: nurses still show up every day to care for patients from every walk of life. They see the disparities. They feel the gaps. They know that representation, cultural humility, and inclusive environments aren’t political—they’re essential.
So, if the playbook has been stripped away, what’s next? How do nurse leaders preserve the spirit of diversity when the very terminology has been weaponized?
CNOs must build a robust, nursing-focused equity-minded program that benefits the nurse, the patient, and the organization. Here's how, according to the American Nurses Association (ANA).
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G Hatfield is the CNO editor for HealthLeaders.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Not only is DEI integral to the nursing code of ethics, having a diverse workforce improves patient outcomes.
CNOs should examine their DEI programs and policies that currently exist, and work to balance compliance with legal and regulatory requirements with professional and ethical standards and obligations.
CNOs and other healthcare executives should consider taking steps to revisit their approaches, programs and policies while maintaining the nursing code of ethics.