Utilisation of a Native American nursing conceptual framework: implications for practice and research

Objective To explore how Native American nurses and non-Native American nurses perceive how the Nursing in the Native American Culture conceptual framework can be utilised in nursing practice and research. Setting The Eleventh Annual Indian Nursing Education Conference in Eau Claire, Wisconsin in the United States of America (USA). Participants A total of 50 female and six male participants who were Native American nursing students, Native American nurses, and non-Native American nurses who were nursing educators and/or delivered health care to Native American populations. Main outcome measures Participants were placed into 14 small groups and were asked "What is the usefulness of the Native American Nursing conceptual framework in guiding nursing practice and research?" The small groups were allotted 45 minutes to dialogue and answer the research question. Each group recorded field notes of their discussion. Results Overall themes emerged from the data that relate to the usefulness of the conceptual framework for nursing practice and research which include: (a) serves as a cultural foundation in practice, (b) supports and guides the value for personal and professional growth, (c) guides research when investigating and exploring Native American phenomenon that are health related, and (d) guides the development of cultural appropriate nursing and health care resources. Conclusions The Nursing in the Native American Culture conceptual framework should be used as a guide when planning and implementing health care and research with Native American populations. Health care providers and researchers should utilise the conceptual framework to establish trust and commitment to deliver care and conduct research in a culturally respectful manner.