Kelsey Rix

Topic

An Autobiographical Narrative Inquiry into the Experiences of Being an Indigenous Nurse: Exploring Identity Making across Place, Time, and Context

School of Nursing

Date & location

• Monday, October 5, 2026
• 9:00 A.M.
• HSD A451

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. Erica Hurley, Faculty of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Lauren Jerke, Department of Indigenous Education, UVic

Abstract

In this autobiographical narrative inquiry, I inquired into my experiences as an Indigenous Nurse. I paid particular attention to my experiences through nursing school and across my professional practice and explored how these experiences have shaped my personal and professional identity. These explorations included conversations with 3 people who have shaped who I am and am becoming as an Indigenous Nurse. Over the past 21 years, I have worked primarily in Indigenous communities, and I reflected on the relations I have formed over many years, honoring others along this journey. I engaged in conversations with mentors, and knowledge holders, who have guided me. Using narrative inquiry (Clandinin & Connelly, 2000) allowed me to explore my experiences across place, time and context. Throughout my study, I engaged in reflective writing and created artwork. I explored the importance of reflexivity in the formation and continual development of professional identity making, and how nursing is rooted in relationality. This research informed a deeper understanding of identity formation of Indigenous Nurses. This is important as Indigenous Nurses are critical in helping Indigenous people achieve positive health outcomes. Indigenous nurses can lead the transformation of the health care system that is more just and equitable.