The Journey and Experiences of Female Hispanic Nurse Leaders

OBJECTIVEThis study aimed to understand the experience of female Hispanic nurses in formal leadership roles.BACKGROUNDResearch has identified that a diverse nursing leadership workforce is essential to providing optimal patient care. Little is known about the phenomenon of minority nurse leaders, particularly female Hispanic nurses in leadership roles.METHODSRicoeur's hermeneutic phenomenology guided the interviews of 15 female Hispanic nurses in leadership roles.RESULTSThree themes were generated that described the environment in which leaders lived: family, culture, and healthcare organization. Four phenomenological themes were identified: weaving my life fabric, my inner dialogue, weight on my shoulders, and paving the way.CONCLUSIONThe study findings highlight the importance of a diverse and inclusive nursing leadership workforce. By proactively addressing equal opportunities, reducing barriers to career advancement, and developing strategies to support and encourage minority nurses, organizations and communities can recruit and retain qualified underrepresented minority nurse leaders.