Stakeholders Inform an LGBTQIA+ Health Best Practices Learning Module for Nursing Students.

Abstract

Introduction: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) summons nurse educators to address health care inequities by preparing leaders who advocate for vulnerable groups. A lack of academic guidelines promoting cultural competence in nursing with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning, intersex, and asexual and/or aromantic (LGBTQIA+) individuals exist. The purpose of this study was to develop a learning module for health care providers about best practices in LGBTQIA+ health informed by key stakeholders.

Methods: Exploratory qualitative design utilized focus group methodology obtaining stakeholder's views on LGBTQIA+ health, with a convenience sample recruited from a large public university. Focus group thematic analysis informed development of the learning module.

Results: Three overarching themes emerged from focus group discussions (n = 31): appropriate terminology, health disparities, and respectful communication.

Discussion: This project addresses an educational gap in nursing curriculum using an interactive online module, introducing key concepts about LGBTQIA+ health. Future research focused on the development of standards of care for LGBTQIA+ individuals can support inclusion and reduce discrimination in health care settings.