Few of us enjoy going to the doctor or visiting the hospital. You鈥檙e ill and stressed with other things to do. Now, picture also worrying about if the employees, health professionals and even other patients will treat you kindly and fairly. Will they respect you? Will they listen to you? Will they mock you? For many LGBTQIA+ patients, that fear is real.
The AIDS crisis in the early 90s had many health workers, including nurses, with AIDS. More recently, in 2015, a study by the reported that 80% of first-year medical students expressed some form of bias against the LGBTQIA+ community. How can we, as nurses and healthcare professionals, do better to offer validating and kind care?
1. Know the Terminology
It鈥檚 crucial to stay updated on basic LGBTQIA+ terms. Being knowledgeable creates a closer bond with your patient, helps to identify potential mental and physical health risks and creates an inclusive and safe environment for them to open up and be honest. We all want to feel comfortable, and it can be difficult when fear of discrimination is present. To learn more about LGBTQIA+ terms, is a good place to start.
2. Respect Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
Taking the time and effort to educate yourself and build an inclusive space is a start, but nurses must respect every patient鈥檚 gender identity and sexual orientation. This may mean putting aside one鈥檚 personal beliefs in the process. Attempt to use unassuming and gender-fluid language. Ask open-ended questions and maintain a judgment-free behavior.
This can all be a tricky subject to navigate, but remember, you鈥檙e treating a human being, first and foremost. It is your professional responsibility to ensure all are treated equally and fairly. states, 鈥淭he nurse practices with compassion and respect for every person鈥檚 inherent dignity, worth and unique attributes.鈥� So, let鈥檚 take these tips and be the reason someone feels safe and welcomed while receiving care. Learn more at the or the .
Care and advocate for all of your patients with the skills you’ll hone through 番茄视频’s fully online nursing programs.
