Clemett V, Gunowa NO, Geraghty J, Woodward S. What influences the inclusion of skin tone diversity when teaching skin assessment? Findings from a survey.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2024;
33:176-186. [PMID:
38386525 DOI:
10.12968/bjon.2024.33.4.176]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Understanding the variances in visual skin changes across all skin tones is important in clinical care. However, the experiences of those teaching skin assessment to pre- and post-registrant nurses are unknown.
AIMS
To determine the barriers and facilitators experienced in teaching skin assessment across a range of skin tones to pre- and post-registrant nurses.
METHODS
A cross-sectional, mixed-methods online survey was undertaken throughout February and March 2023 based on the Theoretical Domains Framework of behaviour change.
FINDINGS
In this self-selecting sample, most participants were aware of why it was important to include all skin tones when teaching skin assessment and were professionally motivated to include this in their practice. However, resources and support are needed to overcome an unconscious bias in teaching skin tone diversity, resulting in a lack of availability of good quality photographs and educator confidence in their own skills. Educators not considering skin tone when selecting patient cases and relying on people with dark skin tones to highlight where practice is not inclusive may also lead to insufficient exposure for students.
CONCLUSION
There is some awareness of the importance of including diverse skin tones in teaching, but further education and resources are needed.
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