Washington Health Equity and Implicit Bias for Nurses

Target Audience
Washington licensed nurses subject to the health equity continuing education requirements in WAC 246-840-222 and the health equity training standards in WAC 246-12-800 through WAC 246-12-830.

Teaching Method
Self-directed learning completed independently, with scenario-based reflection.

Overview
Washington requires nurses to complete health equity continuing education as part of continuing competency requirements. Under WAC 246-840-222, nurses must complete a minimum of 2 Contact Hours of health equity continuing education every year upon license renewal, subject to the transition timing established in the rule. The initial required training must be completed by the second full continuing education reporting period after initial licensure or the 2026 renewal, whichever is later. After the first required reporting period, the training must be completed within the 12-month period before license renewal, and additional health equity hours cannot be carried forward to satisfy the following year’s requirement. The hours count toward applicable nursing continuing education requirements.

This course is structured around WAC 246-12-830 and WAC 246-840-222. It examines implicit bias and strategies for reducing the influence of bias during patient assessment and diagnosis. Learners will examine how assumptions, patterns of clinical decision-making, communication, organizational processes, and structural conditions can contribute to differences in health care experiences and outcomes.

Course content addresses both individual- and system-level responses to health inequities. Individual approaches include self-reflection, recognizing potential bias, using patient-centered communication, examining assumptions, and applying consistent clinical decision-making processes. System-level approaches include reviewing policies, workflows, access barriers, communication systems, data, and organizational practices that may contribute to unequal care.

Learners will also reflect on how their own social position, experiences, professional authority, and assumptions can influence relationships with patients and communities. The course develops practical skills for caring effectively for people from diverse cultures, identities, backgrounds, abilities, socioeconomic circumstances, and communities while avoiding assumptions that reduce individuals to group characteristics.

Consistent with Washington health equity training standards, the course will conclude with an assessment requiring learners to apply health equity concepts to nursing practice situations. Research used in the course will reflect current empirical evidence and recognized best practices. To conform to Washington training standards, the trainer or course author responsible for the educational activity must have demonstrated knowledge and experience related to health equity. C-E-U.com should retain appropriate documentation supporting those qualifications.

This course is being developed to address the Washington health equity continuing education content standards. Development of the course does not by itself constitute Washington Department of Health approval, endorsement, or inclusion on the Department’s identified training list.

Learner Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

• Identify how implicit bias and social position can influence nursing assessment, diagnosis-related decisions, communication, patient relationships, and health equity in Washington nursing practice.
• Apply individual- and system-level strategies to reduce bias and support effective, respectful care for patients from diverse cultures, groups, identities, and communities.
• Evaluate Washington nursing practice scenarios and select health equity interventions that address bias, communication, access, patient-centered care, and equitable clinical decision-making.

Disclosure
The planner(s) and author(s) of this educational activity have disclosed that there are no relevant financial relationships with any commercial interests related to the content of this course. This course is developed for educational purposes and does not receive commercial support.

Disclaimer
The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not guaranteed to be free from errors or omissions. Participants are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to their circumstances. The creators and presenters of this course disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the information provided.