Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients have a history of being discriminated against in the healthcare system and society in general. Very little research is available on the attitudes of nursing students toward this marginalized population. The purpose of this research on LGBT nursing students’ attitudes was to appraise findings on this issue through an electronic search. Medical subject headings using search terms such as gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual, LGBT, nursing students, etc. were used.
These were the results:
1) Fewer than 50 percent of the studies (5 out of 12) suggested more positive attitudes of nursing students toward LGBT persons.
2) Six studies reported negative attitudes, and one study reported neutral attitudes.
These studies indicate that nursing students' attitudes are becoming more positive. Studies published before 2000 reported a preponderance of negative attitudes toward LGBT patients. Negative attitudes impact disparities.
UC Davis Health System has incorporated a practice with doctors that provide LGBT support they believe can reduce LGBT healthcare disparities. Doctors ask patients sexual orientation and gender identity questions as part of the routine clinical assessment. By standardizing the collection of this information through the electronic health record, UC Davis officials believe this gives doctors a better understanding of each patient and helps them provide more well-informed medical advice and care. The following video explains the outcomes:
Frances Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
Hospice and Nursing Homes Blog
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