Conceptualizing the Influence of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging on Professional Identity in Nursing

J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024 Oct;55(10):493-499. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20240909-01. Epub 2024 Sep 13.

Abstract

Background: Professional identity in nursing (PIN) is a multifaceted construct that evolves throughout one's nursing career. As new knowledge about PIN emerges, the influence of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) becomes increasingly vital in shaping a nurse's identity.

Method: Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory is used to illustrate the complex, reciprocal, and intersecting influences of DEIB in the transformational process of becoming a nurse.

Results: The authors provide an in-depth analysis of the nexus of DEIB and PIN conceptual model, examine reciprocal relationships between DEIB and the individual and collective PIN, offer a detailed case study for the application of DEIB and PIN, and make recommendations for implementing the conceptual model.

Conclusion: The model may be used to integrate DEIB and PIN by nurses in all settings. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024;55(10):493-499.].

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cultural Diversity*
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
  • Education, Nursing, Continuing / organization & administration
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nurse's Role / psychology
  • Social Identification*
  • Social Inclusion