The effects of dyslexia on the work of nurses and healthcare assistants.

AIM: To explore the effects of being dyslexic on the working lives of nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs), and to identify what might be done to improve their working lives.

METHOD: A qualitative approach was taken comprising semi-structured interviews and interpretative data analysis. Seven nurses and HCAs took part in the study.

FINDINGS: Dyslexia affects each individual differently and may affect career choice and career progression. Appropriate support from colleagues and employers is important. The participants identified dyslexia-friendly practices and made suggestions for improvements.

CONCLUSION

Nurses and HCAs with dyslexia can make a major contribution to patient care, although dyslexia can affect their work in many different ways. Establishing a dyslexia-friendly workplace would help them to achieve their maximum potential.