Experiences of nurses and midwives with disabilities: A scoping review

Aim: To identify the extent and type of evidence exploring the workplace experiences of nurses and midwives with disabilities. Design: Scoping Review. Data Sources: Four electronic databases were systematically searched in February 2022 to identify studies discussing the experiences of nurses and midwives with disabilities, published between 2012 and 2022. Google Scholar and Theses Global were also searched. Review Methods: All search results, irrespective of their format, were uploaded to Covidence to assist with the selection of evidence. Studies discussing the experiences of nurses and midwives with disabilities were included. Two reviewers conducted screening and data extraction independently, and a third reviewer resolved conflicts. Results: Searches identified 130 studies. After screening for title and abstract, full-text review identified 23 studies for data extraction and analysis. Data were summarized and presented in tabular form under two categories (1) workplace experiences and (2) impact in the workplace. Results were presented in a descriptive, narrative form with accompanying tables. Conclusion: The nurse or midwife can be impacted significantly by disability. Currently, little is known about the workplace experiences of nurses and midwives with disabilities. Therefore, a better understanding of the experiences of the nurse and midwives with disabilities is important to increase diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Impact: Shortage of nurses and midwives worldwide highlights the need to understand why nurses and midwives with disabilities decide to leave the profession. Further research exploring the experiences of nurses or midwives with disabilities will help identify support requirements, develop frameworks for reasonable adjustment accommodations, and assist with future workforce planning.