Cheryl-Lynn Hebert
- BScN Hons. (University of Victoria, 2016)
Topic
Learning through visiting: An exploration of Indigenous nurse leaders’ experiences of health policy translation in practice
School of Nursing
Date & location
- Wednesday, August 26, 2026
- 9:00 A.M.
- Human & Social Development Building, Room 451A
Examining Committee
Supervisory Committee
- Dr. Vera Caine, School of Nursing, University of Victoria (Co-Supervisor)
- Dr. Leanne Kelly, School of Nursing, UVic (Co-Supervisor)
External Examiner
- Dr. KD King, Department of Integrative Nursing Systems, MacEwan University
Chair of Oral Examination
- Dr. Amanda Lavallee, School of Social Work, UVic
Abstract
Grounded in Indigenous Research Methodology and Gaudet's Visiting Way, this study explored how Indigenous nurses experience the spaces between health policy and everyday practice. Through relational visiting with two Indigenous nurse leaders as co-creators, seven teachings emerged: policy does not translate itself; rules can carry colonial harm; nurses' translation work must be protected; nurses carry policy into practice; relationship is how policy becomes meaningful; policy must be place-based; humour, kinship, mentorship, and responsibility sustain the work. Findings show policy-to-practice translation is relational, place-based, and under-recognized Indigenous nursing labour. Health systems must treat this implementation as formal work requiring authority, protection, and resourcing rather than relying on individual Indigenous nurses to absorb accountability the system has yet to hold.