Faculty at the Washington State University College of Nursing continue to contribute research that addresses real-world health care challenges. Recent publications focus on health equity, pain management, and the connection between human and environmental health. Together, this work reflects a strong focus on improving outcomes across communities.
Structural violence, population health, and health equity
Faculty: Dr. Connie Kim Yen Nguyen-Truong, PhD, BSN, RN, ANEF, FAAN
This article examines how systems and policies shape health outcomes over time. It outlines how structural violence affects access to care, exposure to risk, and long-term health across populations. The work calls for approaches that move beyond individual behavior and address broader social conditions that drive inequities.
Centring Biodiversity in Nursing for Decolonial Planetary Health
Faculty: Dr. Melissa Vera, PhD, RN
This article explores how nursing can engage with planetary health through a biodiversity lens. It challenges traditional approaches and calls for more inclusive, decolonial frameworks in health care. The work connects environmental health with patient and community well-being.
Mapping Research Priorities for Climate Change Adaptation in Agriculture: A One Health Perspective
Faculty: Dr. Claire Richards, PhD, RN, Dr. Christina Brumley, PhD, RN, and Dr. Julie Postma, PhD, RN
This publication explores how climate change is affecting agricultural systems, worker safety, animal health, and community well-being. The article identifies priority areas for future interdisciplinary research and highlights the importance of collaboration across public health, occupational health, environmental science, and agriculture to address emerging climate-related risks.
RELIEF: Resources and Innovations to Improve Pain Management while Reducing Opioid Risks
Faculty: Dr. Marian Wilson, PhD, MPH, RN, PMGT-BC
This publication introduces a framework aimed at improving pain care while reducing reliance on opioids. It outlines tools and strategies that support safer prescribing and better patient outcomes. The work focuses on balancing effective pain relief with risk reduction in clinical practice.
This work reflects the kind of inquiry and impact that defines doctoral education at WSU College of Nursing. For nurses interested in advancing research, leadership, and policy, the PhD program offers a path to develop and apply that work.
Learn more about the WSU College of Nursing PhD program.
