Document Type

Poster

Original Publication Date

2019

Journal/Book/Conference Title

American Psychiatric Nurses Association 2019 Annual Conference -

Comments

1st Place Education Award Winner

Date of Submission

October 2019

Abstract

Abstract:

Purpose:

LGBTQIA+ patients experience devastating mental health and substance abuse disparities. While our organization has a broad non-discrimination statement that includes gender identity and sexual orientation, there is no guidance for how to best serve these patients. Evidence suggests training sessions are a successful means of increasing LGBTQIA+ cultural competency, with “Safe Zone” identified as being especially successful on college campuses. The Healthcare Equality Index also calls for education to demonstrate healthcare organizations’ commitment to LGBTQIA+ patients.

Intervention:

We developed an educational workshop - Safe Zone – with university psychologists. This workshop included interactive exercises that focused on increasing empathy and cultural humility.

Implementation:

A formal pilot was completed with inpatient psychiatric nurses. Results demonstrated increased comfort interacting with and advocating for LGBTQIA+ patients, as well as increased knowledge of health disparities and terminology. The workshop, along with pre-and post-education survey data, was presented to key stakeholders in the organization.

Outcomes:

Safe Zone is now in the early stages of dissemination across the organization. This will give all staff the opportunity to increase their knowledge of LGBTQIA+ patients. We are consulting on clinical information changes happening within our organization. These include creating specific education bulletins to assist staff with asking patients about their LGBTQIA+ identity.

Future Implications:

We will examine if and how Safe Zone improves experiences for LGBTQIA+ patients. Safe Zone will inspire staff to advocate for their organization to be more inclusive of LGBTQIA+ patients. Education is one aspect of the Healthcare Equality Index, but also a critical step to creating an equitable LGBTQIA+ environment.

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VCU Health Nursing

Included in

Nursing Commons

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