In today’s increasingly diverse healthcare landscape, advanced practice nurses are at the forefront of patient care and must be equipped not only with clinical skills but also with cultural humility and self-awareness. The UWM DNP Program takes a proactive and innovative approach to implicit bias mitigation through the use of simulation-based training. DNP students are given an active learning opportunity to develop tools for navigating these situations in a safe environment. This activity was created by DNP faculty Dr. Vicki Swaney, Dr. Vipavee Thongpriwan, Dr. Melissa Melcher and Dr. Adrienne Markiewicz and was presented at the Building Bridges to Nursing Research Annual Conference at Marquette University in Spring 2025.
Understanding Implicit Bias in Healthcare
Implicit bias refers to unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions. In healthcare, these biases can lead to disparities in diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.
Advanced practice nurses interact with patients from all walks of life. Training in implicit bias helps them:
- Recognize unconscious assumptions
- Improve communication and empathy
- Deliver more equitable and respectful care for all people
- Reflect on how personal and systemic biases affect clinical decisions
Simulation: A Powerful Tool for Bias Awareness
Simulation-based learning (SBL) uses realistic clinical scenarios to teach and assess skills. When combined with implicit bias content, simulations allow nurses to:
- Practice navigating complex interpersonal dynamics.
- Experience diverse patient perspectives.
- Engage in structured debriefing to reflect on biases and behaviors.
Towards Equitable Nursing Practice
Simulation-based implicit bias training is a safe and effective tool toward more inclusive, empathetic, and effective nursing care. By combining clinical realism with reflective learning, nurses can better understand their biases and commit to continuous growth.
As healthcare evolves, so must our approach to education. Nurses deserve the resources to care for every patient with dignity, respect, and equity.
Interested in learning more about this educational approach? Contact Vicki Swaney (swaney@uwm.edu).
Interested in joining a program whose curriculum and faculty provide real tools for real-life clinical practice? Applications are open now for a Fall 2026 start. Get more information and apply on the DNP program page.