Racism as a Public Health Issue for Nurses of Color in Clinical and Academic Settings: Ten Nurses Tell Their Stories.

Aim: The aim of this study was to bring awareness to how racism and discrimination, accompanied by bullying and incivility, negatively impact the health of nurses of color.

Background: Racism and discrimination encountered in the daily lives of nurses of color present risk for psychological and physiological damage to their health. Repeated exposure to racism and discrimination leads to cumulative stress that may pose a negative impact on the health status of affected nurses.

Methods: Phenomenology served as the methodology for this research study. The principal investigator transcribed and coded data from 10 nurse participants.

Results: Data illustrate a pattern of nurses of color experiencing discrimination and racism, with racism being a potential public health issue. Their stories may empower others to make positive, productive decisions and persevere.

Conclusion: Long-term exposure to racism and its related potential effects on nurses' health presents a grave concern for nurses of color.