Suzanne C. Smeltzer, RN, EdD. FAAN
Gale Robinson-Smith, RN, PhD
Mary Anne Dolen, DrPh, RN, CHES

This study will examine the extent and type of disability content included in commonly used nursing textbooks. It is based on research findings that demonstrate that despite a large and growing number of persons with disability in the U.S., many health care providers---including nurses---do not perceive persons with disabilities in a positive light and fail to attend to their health care needs. Because textbooks serve as the cornerstones of nursing education, this study will examine how effectively disability is addressed in common textbooks used in nursing curricula. The study addresses the National League for Nursing’s research priority to improve the competencies of nursing graduates for the 21st century. Additionally, it is consistent with the objective of Healthy People 2010 to address disparities in health care for persons with disabilities.