Defense Date
2-15-2024
Graduation Date
Spring 5-11-2024
Availability
One-year Embargo
Submission Type
dissertation
Degree Name
PhD
Department
Nursing
School
School of Nursing
Committee Chair
Sr Rosemary Donley
Committee Member
Noah Potvin
Committee Member
Jesse Helton
Keywords
intellectual disability, health disparity, advocacy
Abstract
Background: Nurses working in the specialty of intellectual disabilities are positioned to advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities and other health disparities. This study explored nurses’ perceived competencies, barriers, and facilitators when advocating for improved health status in adult patients with intellectual disabilities.
Methods: Twenty-five nurses working in the specialty of intellectual disabilities were interviewed using semi-structured interviews, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: Barriers identified in advocacy were: Funding, Communication, Negative Perceptions and Misperceptions, Lack of access, and Diagnostic Overshadowing. Nurses were also facilitated in advocating for improved health status in people with intellectual disabilities. Facilitators identified in advocacy were: Collaboration, Proactive Communication, Supportive Employers, Confidence, and Making a Difference.
Conclusion: The challenges identified in this study can help prevent and treat health disparities in this vulnerable population.
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Adams, C. (2024). Barriers, Facilitators, and Competencies in Advocating for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities with Health Disparities (Doctoral dissertation, Duquesne University). Retrieved from https://dsc.duq.edu/etd/2325