Strategies for culturally safe research with Native American communities: an integrative review

Teresa N. Brockie, Kyle Hill, Patricia M. Davidson, Ellie Decker, Lydia Koh Krienke, Katie E. Nelson, Natalie Nicholson, Alicia M. Werk, Deborah Wilson, Deana Around Him

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: A history of unethical research and deficit-based paradigms have contributed to profound mistrust of research among Native Americans, serving as an important call to action. Lack of cultural safety in research with Native Americans limits integration of cultural and contextual knowledge that is valuable for understanding challenges and making progress toward sustainable change. Aim: To identify strategies for promoting cultural safety, accountability, and sustainability in research with Native American communities. Method: Using an integrative review approach, three distinct processes were carried out: (1) appraisal of peer-reviewed literature (Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest), (2) review of grey literature (e.g. policy documents and guidelines), and (3) synthesis of recommendations for promoting cultural safety. Results: A total of 378 articles were screened for inclusion, with 55 peer-reviewed and grey literature articles extracted for full review. Recommendations from included articles were synthesised into strategies aligned with eight thematic areas for improving cultural safety in research with Native American communities. Conclusions: Research aiming to understand, respect, and acknowledge tribal sovereignty, address historical trauma, and endorse Indigenous methods is essential. Culturally appropriate, community-based and -engaged research collaborations with Native American communities can signal a reparative effort, re-establish trust, and inform pragmatic solutions. Rigorous research led by Native American people is critical to address common and complex health challenges faced by Native American communities. Impact statement: Respect and rigorous methods ensure cultural safety, accountability, and sustainability in research with Native Americans.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)8-32
Number of pages25
JournalContemporary Nurse
Volume58
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Keywords

  • Native American
  • best practices
  • community-based research
  • culturally safe research
  • ethics
  • integrative review

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