DiversityNursing Blog

For Nurses and healthcare professionals who provide care to elderly individuals, it is of utmost importance to be able to identify and report signs of elder abuse. Elder abuse can take various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or neglect.

The National Council on Aging, estimates up to 5 million older Americans are abused every year, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion.

Here's a guide for Nurses to help identify and respond to signs of elder abuse:

Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the different types of elder abuse and their common signs. Understanding the various forms of abuse will make it easier for you to recognize them in your patients. 

Observe Physical Indicators: Look for unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or other injuries. Pay attention to repeated injuries or injuries in various stages of healing. These may be signs of physical abuse.

Be Attentive to Behavioral Changes: Be mindful of changes in the elder's behavior, such as sudden withdrawal, depression, anxiety, fearfulness, or unexplained changes in personality. These could indicate emotional or psychological abuse.

Watch for Signs of Neglect: Unkempt appearance, poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, or the presence of pressure sores are potential signs of neglect.

Pay Attention to Financial Indicators: You might be in a situation where you are caring for someone in their home or a nursing home. Keep an eye out for sudden changes in the elder's financial situation, such as missing money, unauthorized withdrawals, or unusual changes to their will or financial documents, as these may indicate financial abuse.

Listen to Their Statements: Sometimes, the elder may hint or express directly that they are experiencing abuse. Take their concerns seriously and document their statements appropriately.

Communicate with Family and Caregivers: Engage in open communication with family members and caregivers. They may provide valuable information and insights into the elder's situation.

Use Screening Tools: Some healthcare facilities may have screening tools to assess the risk of elder abuse. Utilize these tools to identify potential cases.

Document Thoroughly: When you suspect elder abuse, document your observations and conversations carefully. Include dates, times, and details of what you observed or what the elder disclosed.

Report Suspected Abuse: If you have reasonable suspicion or evidence of elder abuse, follow your institution's protocols and report it to the appropriate authorities, such as the supervisor, social worker, or Adult Protective Services (APS) in your area.

Support the Elder: Offer support and empathy to the elder. Let them know that you are there to help and that their safety is a priority.

Remember, reporting elder abuse is not only an ethical responsibility but may also be a legal requirement in many States. Taking action promptly can protect vulnerable older adults from further harm and help them access the support and resources they need.

Disability affects approximate 61 million, or nearly 1 in 4 (26%) of people in the United States. Including people with disabilities in everyday activities and creating accessible environments and equitable opportunities that support them in holding roles similar to their peers who do not have a disability is disability inclusion.

Disability inclusion entails identifying barriers that potentially impact people with disabilities to independently live and be fully engaged in their communities. Everyone can make a difference and play a part in addressing those barriers.

Nurses play a crucial role in creating more inclusive health care and providing high-quality care. Caring for disabled patients requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach.

Here are some best practices for Nurses to consider when caring for disabled patients:

Accessibility: Ensure that the environment is accessible and accommodates the needs of disabled patients. This includes providing ramps, handrails, and wide doorways for those with mobility impairments. Make sure medical equipment is accessible and that communication aids, such as hearing devices or visual aids, are readily available. Braille signs provide crucial information related to your medical facility for people with visual impairments, such as the location of your restrooms, exits, and more.

Develop a Personal Connection: Building a personal connection with your patients is essential for establishing trust and rapport. Take the time to get to know them as individuals, ask about their interests, hobbies, and goals. This not only helps create a positive and supportive environment but also enables Nurses to provide care that is tailored to their unique needs and preferences.

Foster Effective Communication: Effective communication is vital when caring for disabled patients. It is important to understand and respect their preferred method of communication, whether it is verbal, non-verbal, or through assistive devices. Take the time to listen attentively, use clear and simple language, and allow them sufficient time to express themselves. If needed, collaborate with speech therapists or communication specialists to enhance communication capabilities.

Promote Independence and Autonomy: Patients with disabilities often face challenges in performing daily activities. As a Nurse, it is important to promote independence and autonomy by encouraging patients to participate in their care and decision-making processes. Involve them in setting goals, planning their care, and making choices whenever possible. This fosters a sense of empowerment and enhances their overall well-being.

Address Physical and Emotional Needs: Disabled patients may experience physical and emotional challenges due to their condition. It is crucial for Nurses to address both aspects of their well-being. This includes providing appropriate pain management strategies, managing symptoms effectively, and promoting comfort and mobility. Additionally, Nurses should offer emotional support by actively listening, showing empathy, and providing resources for counseling or therapy if needed.

Collaborate with a Multidisciplinary Team: Caring for disabled patients often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Nurses should collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Social Workers, and Psychologists, to provide comprehensive care. By working together, healthcare professionals can develop a holistic care plan that addresses the various aspects of a patient's well-being.

Stay Updated with Best Practices: The field of healthcare is constantly evolving, and it is essential for Nurses to stay updated with the latest best practices and evidence-based research. Continuous learning and professional development help Nurses enhance their knowledge and skills in caring for disabled patients. Attend workshops, conferences, and training sessions focused on disability care to stay informed about new techniques, technologies, and approaches.

Advocacy: Nurses can act as patient advocates by helping patients make informed or ethical decisions, translate medical terminology into common language, and navigate complex medical systems. Often, you are the closest healthcare provider to your patient. You can help protect their rights, health, and safety by upholding patient equality, making patients a priority, and being a reliable resource.

In conclusion, caring for disabled patients requires a compassionate and patient-centered approach. By implementing these best practices, Nurses can provide optimal care, promote independence, and improve overall well-being. Remember, each patient is unique, and providing person-centered care requires flexibility, empathy, and a willingness to adapt your approach to meet individual needs.

Although technology could never replace compassion and human interaction, it can significantly improve and streamline processes and procedures to ensure patients receive the best quality care. Healthcare technologies can make patient care better, easier, and more efficient, especially with a large patient load. Here are some current healthcare technologies you should get to know to help better provide Nursing care to your patients.

Telehealth

Telehealth has become a buzzworthy topic in the healthcare community. Telehealth has been gaining popularity for years but was significantly accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth services enable Nurses to interact with patients, assess their symptoms and conditions, provide instructions for care, and offer support, all without being physically present with their patients.  

One of the many benefits of telehealth is it can enhance access to healthcare for individuals living in remote or rural communities or those with limited mobility. It also significantly reduces travel time and patient expenses, improves care coordination, and allows Nurses to reach a larger patient population.

Wearable Medical Devices

Wearable medical devices offer Nurses new tools to enhance patient care and monitoring. These devices can wirelessly transmit patient information such as vital signs, blood sugars, and ECG patterns to Nurses to quickly analyze and interpret the data. Wearable medical devices offer valuable data in real-time, enhance the patient experience, and help Nurses deliver quality patient care to all patients regardless of their geographical location.  

Electronic Health Records

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have revolutionized how Nurses manage patient information and care. EHRs are digital versions of patient medical records containing comprehensive information about medical and health history, current diagnoses, medications, treatments, and other relevant medical data to help you provide better patient care.  

EHRs have streamlined documentation for Nurses to document patient information which, as a result, reduces the need for physical storage space, eliminates handwriting legibility issues, and provides a structured documentation format.

Point of Care Technology

Point-of-care technology (POCT) refers to medical devices and technologies that enable Nurses to access and utilize patient information and perform diagnostic testing while providing care directly at the bedside or point of care. Point-of-care technologies used by Nurses can include mobile devices like smartphones and tablets that allow access to EHRs, medication databases, clinical references, and communication platforms to communicate with healthcare team members.

Nurses often utilize other hand health point-of-care technologies like digital thermometers, pulse oximeters, portable EKG machines, portable ultrasound, and blood sugar monitors. POCT improves efficiency, accuracy, and patient outcomes by enabling Nurses to access important information, perform testing and get rapid results, and deliver care directly at the bedside, which promotes patient engagement.  

Patient Portals

Patient portals are online platforms that allow patients to access their health information, communicate with healthcare providers, and engage in their care. Nurses can use patient portals to educate patients, communicate with patients, and coordinate care. We can foster a collaborative and patient-centered approach when Nurses utilize patient portals and other mobile health apps to connect with patients.

The Impact of Technology on the Nursing Profession

As technological advancements evolve, Nurses must continuously learn to adapt and acquire new skills. There are numerous advantages for Nurses who utilize healthcare technology, including faster communication, increased efficiency, improved access to patient information, and reduced Nurse burnout. Nurses who stay informed and embrace developing technology can help lead the way toward a brighter future for the Nursing profession.

Nurses at the forefront of healthcare continue to face challenges that change how we provide Nursing care to our patients. As the Nursing field continues to evolve, here are some of the top Nursing trends to watch in 2023 and for the years to come.

Nursing Shortages

Nursing shortages across all aspects of healthcare will continue to increase in 2023 and for several years to come. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nurses have experienced higher rates of burnout which has led to an increased number of Nurses leaving bedside Nursing or even the Nursing profession altogether. Nurse burnout, coupled with the baby boomer generation of Nurses entering retirement, has left an increasing need for Nursing professionals across all aspects of healthcare.

To help combat the growing Nursing shortage, many Nursing programs offer rolling admissions and flexible online Nursing programs to help accommodate as many potential Nurses as possible. The World Health Organization has estimated that nearly 6 million more healthcare jobs must be filled by 2030 to meet the growing healthcare needs. We can expect the demand for Nurses to remain high for many years.

Job Availability Increases

Job availability for Nurses has been rising for several years, and 2023 will be no different. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that by 2031, job growth for Registered Nurses is expected to increase by 6% and Nurse Practitioners by 40%. Several factors will influence the increasing job availability, including the retirement of the baby boomer generation of Nurses, the growing demand for healthcare, and the inability of Nursing schools to keep up with the increasing demands of students. 

Online Nursing Programs

As the demand for Nursing professionals increases, online education programs will continue to grow in popularity. Online programs offer students scheduling flexibility to make it easier to attend classes while dealing with other responsibilities like work and family life. Online programs also create a new market for students living in rural areas who need help commuting to universities.

Travel Nursing

Travel Nursing has been a rising trend for some time, but it came into focus during the COVID-19 Pandemic. As thousands of Nurses traveled to care for the surging patient volumes in COVID-19 hot spots, it was realized how much value travel Nurses bring to the shifting demands of healthcare. Travel Nursing offers higher compensation, the opportunity to work in new environments, and travel opportunities Nurses otherwise would not be able to experience. More and more Nurses have discovered the endless perks of travel Nursing over the past few years, and there is no end in sight. We can expect travel Nursing to continue to grow in popularity.

Increased Salaries

As the Nursing shortage continues, it is expected that we will see an increase in salary for Nurses over the next few years. Adequate compensation is necessary to attract and retain qualified Nurses, recognize them for their expertise, and address their daily challenges. Although increasing salaries for Nurses involves much more than just a higher paycheck, many healthcare networks have been reconsidering healthcare budgets, government policies, and negotiations between employers and unions to help better compensate Nurses for their tireless work efforts.

Mental Health Awareness

Mental health is an essential aspect of well-being for everyone, including Nurses. The Nursing profession has always been one to carry a significant mental burden, and this can take a toll on mental health over time. Although it has been going on for decades, the pandemic revealed a devastating increase in Nurse burnout, stress, fatigue, anxiety, and depression that can no longer be ignored. In the coming years, we can expect to see an increase in mental health awareness and services available to help Nurses better prioritize their mental health. It is anticipated that healthcare organizations will start to implement initiatives to help promote self-care and work-life balance, like mental health services, stress reduction programs, and peer support networks.

Telehealth Services

Telehealth and virtual care services have exponentially increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses are now providing remote care, conducting virtual health assessments, monitoring patients remotely and offering telephonic or video consultations to help bridge healthcare gaps and improve patient outcomes. Telehealth services allow for increased access to healthcare to patients who otherwise would not have available healthcare like people from rural or underserved areas. As healthcare continues to evolve and grow, we can expect the same from telehealth services over the next few years.

Nursing trends shape the Nursing progression and can significantly impact working environments and the roles and responsibilities of Nurses. As Nursing trends continue to evolve, one thing that will always remain true about the Nursing profession is it will remain a dynamic profession that must continue to grow and adapt to new medical research, technology, and healthcare challenges.

To truly excel in a Nurse leadership role, it takes a unique blend of qualities and attributes that empower Nurses to guide their teams and achieve positive patient outcomes.

Here are some key traits and characteristics commonly associated with successful leadership:

Strong Communication Skills: Effective Nurse leaders possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They can clearly articulate their expectations, actively listen to others, and provide constructive feedback. Clear communication helps foster collaboration, resolve conflicts, and ensure the delivery of quality care.

Susan Adams, an Associate Professor at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis said, “Communication is not you telling people your thoughts or ideas. The most powerful part of communication is being a good, active listener. You must listen to understand the perspective and be able to verbally reflect that back. Once a person is heard, you’ve established a foundation to move forward.”

Integrity and Ethics: Nurse leaders must demonstrate high levels of integrity and ethical conduct. They serve as role models for their teams and maintain professional standards in their practice. Acting with honesty, trustworthiness, and ethical decision-making builds a culture of trust and respect.

Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence involves being aware of and managing one's emotions while understanding and empathizing with others. Nurse leaders with high emotional intelligence can effectively navigate complex situations, display empathy towards patients and staff, and build strong interpersonal relationships.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Successful leaders possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They can analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and develop innovative solutions. This trait allows them to navigate challenges effectively and guide their teams towards optimal patient outcomes.

Adaptability and Flexibility: In the dynamic healthcare environment, Nurse leaders need to be adaptable and flexible. They must be open to change, able to adjust their strategies as needed, and embrace new technologies and practices. Adaptability enables them to respond to emerging healthcare trends and effectively lead their teams through transitions.

Visionary Leadership: Nurse leaders with a clear vision inspire and motivate their teams. They possess the ability to envision the future of healthcare, set goals, and communicate a compelling vision to their staff. By sharing their vision and aligning the team's efforts, leaders can foster innovation and achieve organizational success.

Collaboration and Team Building: Successful Nurse leaders prioritize collaboration and team building. They value the input and expertise of their team members and create an environment that encourages open communication, teamwork, and collaboration. Leaders who foster a sense of belonging and trust among their staff create a supportive and productive work culture.

Continuous Learning: Leaders who prioritize continuous learning contribute to their own professional growth and the development of their teams. They stay updated with current research, evidence-based practices, and industry advancements. By embracing lifelong learning, they can provide evidence-based care and guide their teams towards excellence.

Resilience: Often, Nurse leaders encounter various challenges and obstacles. Resilience allows them to bounce back from setbacks, overcome adversity, and maintain a positive outlook. They inspire resilience in their teams, ensuring the provision of quality care even in challenging circumstances.

According to the University of Cincinnati, research shows effective Nurse leaders as teachers, mentors, and coaches, that foster resilience in their team members in 7 distinct ways. Those include:

• Facilitating social connections
• Promoting positivity
• Capitalizing on strengths
• Nurturing growth
• Encouraging self-care
• Fostering mindfulness practices
• Conveying altruism

Empowerment and Mentorship: Leaders empower their team members and promote their professional growth. They provide guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement. By investing in their staff's development, they create a culture of empowerment and foster a sense of job satisfaction.

While these traits and characteristics are important for successful Nurse leadership, it's important to note that leadership skills can be developed and enhanced over time with experience, education, and self-reflection.

Sexual harassment is a prevalent issue that can have far-reaching consequences. It can occur in any workplace, regardless of industry or job title. Nursing, unfortunately, is not immune to this problem.

Nurses are often in vulnerable positions, working long hours, and caring for patients who may be in distress. This can create an environment where sexual harassment can occur. It is essential to recognize that sexual harassment is not a trivial matter and can have serious consequences for everyone involved.

Sexual harassment in Nursing can take many forms that can be difficult to identify and address. Nurses may be subjected to unwanted sexual advances, such as propositions for sex or dates, or explicit comments about their physical appearance or sexual preferences. Inappropriate touching or gestures can also occur, such as unwanted hugging or kissing, or physical contact that is intended to be sexual in nature. Sexual harassment can also manifest through comments or jokes that are sexual in nature, causing Nurses to feel disrespected, belittled, and dehumanized.

Experiencing this harassment can have profound and long-lasting effects on Nurses, including emotional distress, physical symptoms like headaches and sleep disturbances, decreased job satisfaction and productivity, and even anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Furthermore, sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment resulting in low morale, increased turnover rates, and decreased patient satisfaction. It can also have a negative impact on the quality of care provided by Nurses, as they may be distracted or unable to focus on their work due to the harassment.

Preventing sexual harassment requires a commitment from Nurses, Nurse leaders, and healthcare organizations. Nurses must be aware of their rights and responsibilities regarding sexual harassment and report any incidents of harassment to their supervisor or human resources department. Nurse leaders and healthcare organizations should establish and enforce policies that prohibit sexual harassment and provide education and training on preventing and addressing it.

It is also important to create a culture of respect and professionalism that promotes zero tolerance for sexual harassment. This includes encouraging open communication, respecting boundaries, and providing support for Nurses who have experienced harassment.

If you're a Nurse who has been sexually assaulted, here are some steps you can consider taking:

Ensure your safety: If you're in immediate danger, call emergency services or the local police right away. Find a safe place where you feel secure.

Seek medical attention: It's important to prioritize your physical well-being. Go to the nearest hospital or clinic to receive a medical examination. This will help document any injuries, collect evidence, and assess your overall health.

Notify your workplace: Inform your supervisor or human resources department about the incident. They can guide you through the internal procedures and provide assistance or accommodations if needed.

Preserve evidence: Try to avoid showering, changing clothes, or altering the scene of the assault, as these actions could impact the collection of evidence. If possible, keep the clothes you were wearing during the incident in a paper bag to preserve any potential evidence.

Reach out to someone you trust: Speak with someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, colleague, or mental health professional about the assault. They can provide emotional support and help you through the process.

Report the assault: Contact the appropriate authorities, such as the police or hospital security, to report the assault. They will guide you through the legal process and investigate the incident. Be prepared to provide them with a detailed account of what happened.

Consult a Counselor or Therapist: Consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist who specializes in trauma or sexual assault. They can assist you in processing your emotions, providing coping strategies, and supporting your healing journey.

Familiarize yourself with support resources: Research local support organizations or hotlines that specifically deal with sexual assault cases. These organizations can offer counseling, legal advice, and additional resources to aid your recovery.

Seek legal advice: Contact a lawyer who specializes in sexual assault cases. They can provide guidance on your rights, legal options, and potential actions you can take against the perpetrator.

Take care of yourself: Self-care is crucial during this challenging time. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by getting enough rest, eating nutritious food, engaging in activities you enjoy, and reaching out to supportive individuals.

It is important to keep in mind that these steps are just general recommendations, and seeking guidance from professionals who can tailor their advice to your unique situation is crucial.

Nurses must always be prepared to care for patients from all backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community. Caring for the LGBTQ+ community requires an educated, compassionate, and inclusive approach. As Nurses, we ensure every patient receives the most personalized and competent care possible. Here are some tips to help you provide better care to the LGBTQ+ community.

Create a Welcoming, Warm, and Inclusive Environment

A crucial aspect of caring for the LGBTQ+ population is creating a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment. When people feel like they are being cared for without bias or judgment, they are more likely to seek preventative and immediate care. Healthcare professionals should educate themselves on LGBTQ+ terminology so that each patient can feel understood and respected.

Expand your Knowledge of the LGBTQ+ Community

Nurses must keep updated with training, reading, and learning from others on any healthcare topic. To provide better care to the LGBTQ+ community, educate yourself on current LGBTQ+ subjects such as sexual orientation and gender identity. Consider seeking a continuing education credit from a reputable source like lgbtqiahealtheducation.org/.

Use Inclusive Language

Not all people identify with their biological sex. Using inclusive language within the LGBTQ+ community is one of the most essential aspects of providing competent, patient-centered care. When caring for the LGBTQ+ community, use language like “currently nursing’ instead of ‘nursing mother’ or ‘menstruating person’ instead of ‘menstruating mother.’ These slight variations in how we speak to and about patients who identify in the LGBTQ+ spectrum can make all the difference in how we provide care. It is essential to address and approach each patient interaction with a nonjudgmental attitude and an open mind so that each patient can feel welcome and understood.

Use Correct Pronouns

Pronouns are incredibly important when addressing patients within the LGBTQ+ community. Feel free to ask your patient what their preferred pronouns are to ensure you are addressing them in a way they want to be addressed. Asking patients about their preferred pronouns and abiding by their requests shows respect. It signifies you are aware that not every person identifies with pronouns associated with their biological sex.

Familiarize Yourself with LGBTQ+ Health Disparities

It is important to build awareness around the specific health problems that affect the LGBTQ+ community so we can do our part in bridging healthcare gaps. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ people experience higher rates of sexually transmitted infections, drug and alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, suicide, cancer, violence, or bullying. Nurses should continually strive to further their educational knowledge of health disparities and interventions to make healthcare more accessible to the LGBTQ+ population.

Show Respect and Establish Trust

LGBTQ+ patients deserve the same respect as any other patient. For some LGBTQ+ patients, it can take a lot to seek care and disclose personal information about their lives. Many patients may feel judged if they reveal intimate details about their lives, so we must create a warm, judgment-free environment to collect all the information we need to provide the most competent care possible. Building a trusting nurse-patient relationship can help reduce health disparities and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

As Nurses, we are responsible for modifying how we provide healthcare and creating individualized care plans so every patient can feel comfortable in the healthcare setting regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. All any patient wants is to feel heard, validated, and respected when seeking medical care, and it is our job to do our part and remain educated on the specific needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

Men's Health Month is an important observance aimed at raising awareness about the health issues affecting men and encouraging them to take proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Below are general statistics and facts related to men's health. 

Life Expectancy: On average, men have a shorter life expectancy compared to women. In the United States, the life expectancy for men is around 73 years, compared with women’s, which is about 79, according to CDC data.

Leading Causes of Death: The leading causes of death among men vary by age group. However, the common causes include heart disease, cancer (particularly lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer), accidents, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and diabetes.

Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. It typically affects older men, with the risk increasing with age. Regular screening and early detection are crucial for improving outcomes.

Testicular Cancer: Testicular cancer primarily affects younger men, usually between the ages of 15 and 35. Early detection and treatment have high success rates. Men are encouraged to perform regular self-examinations to check for any unusual lumps or changes.

Mental Health: Men often face unique challenges regarding mental health. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and suicide rates are higher among men. However, societal stigmas and reluctance to seek help often prevent men from seeking support and treatment.

Heart Disease: Heart disease is a significant concern for men. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, and family history. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk.

Obesity and Physical Activity: Obesity rates among men are a growing concern. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity and a balanced diet can reduce the risk of numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking remains a major health risk for men. It increases the likelihood of developing various cancers, heart disease, respiratory conditions, and other health problems. Quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco use is crucial for better overall health.

Sexual Health: Men's sexual health encompasses various aspects, including erectile dysfunction, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and reproductive health. Regular check-ups, safe practices, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential.

Access to Healthcare: Men often face barriers to accessing healthcare, such as a reluctance to seek medical attention, lack of awareness, and limited preventive care. Regular check-ups, health screenings, and early interventions can significantly improve health outcomes.

These statistics and facts can change over time so it's best to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and information regarding your health.

Health disparities are the health differences experienced between different groups based on race, ethnicity, disability, sex/gender, socioeconomic status, educational level, and more. Unfortunately, the LGBTQ+ community is no exception to health disparities.

Health differences in the LGBTQ+ community can include how many people contract a specific disease, how severe the condition becomes, the complications associated with the disease, how many people die from an illness, access to healthcare, and how many people can access preventative health screenings.

Health disparities within the LGBTQ+ community can affect every aspect of a person's life, including physical and mental health. As healthcare providers, we are responsible for identifying health disparities and continually working toward bridging these gaps so every person can receive quality healthcare and routine health screenings.

Barriers to Healthcare in the LGBTQ+ Community

Research has revealed that LGBTQ+ individuals are less likely to have access to quality healthcare for a variety of reasons, including

• A lack of inclusive and competent healthcare providers with knowledge of LGBTQ+ health and health issues affecting transgender persons.
• The concern of stigma or discrimination from healthcare providers
• Prior negative experiences from LGBTQ+ persons
• The financial burden of affording health insurance or paying out of pocket for care
• Being refused care due to sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender presentation

Regardless of the reason behind healthcare barriers within the LGBTQ+ population, there are several health disparities that healthcare workers must educate themselves upon to help better serve the community. Here are some of the most prominent health conditions affecting LGBTQ+ people and what you can do to help better serve your patients.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are more affected by certain STIs, including HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and HPV (human papillomavirus), than other individuals. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community hesitate to seek medical care due to the potential stigma and judgment they may receive about their lifestyle, which can lead to worse medical outcomes. As medical providers, we must create a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free space for people within the LGBTQ+ population to receive medical care.

To better serve the LGBTQ+ population, Nurses must educate themselves on the increased health risks of the LGBTQ+ community and ensure that every patient receives routine health screenings and health education. It can be difficult and embarrassing for any person to seek medical care for sexual health concerns or screenings, so it is essential to create a nonjudgmental, inclusive, and caring environment for patients to feel comfortable disclosing sexual information and receiving care.

Anxiety and Depression

It is estimated that up to 60% of the LGBTQ+ population deals with anxiety and depression at some point. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ people experience worse mental health outcomes than other communities. Factors behind anxiety and depression in LGBTQ+ people can range from discrimination, bullying, lack of acceptance from friends and family, lack of representation in school and media, lack of inclusive language, and less access to community support.

As a healthcare professional, you can better support the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community by creating and welcoming a safe environment free of judgment and stigma. We can also work to provide better mental health services. The Trevor Project is a fantastic resource for LGBTQ+ patients struggling with anxiety and depression. The Trevor Project offers trained counselors who can be reached 24/7 by phone or text. Every counselor is trained to understand the unique challenges of the LGBTQ+ community, and every conversation is 100% free and confidential.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Statistics show that people within the LGBTQ+ community are twice as likely to suffer from drug and alcohol abuse than other populations. This is mainly attributed to the fact that the LGBTQ+ community faces discrimination, social stigmas, and a general lack of support despite the growing acceptance from strangers, acquaintances, friends, and family. Drugs and alcohol are often used as a coping mechanism for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other insecurities.

To better support the LGBTQ+ community struggling with drug and alcohol abuse, healthcare providers can use motivational interviewing and screening tools to better identify individuals who may be struggling so we can better provide care and support. Furthermore, healthcare professionals should approach these situations with kindness and understanding while using inclusive language to help patients navigate recovery.

There are many resources available to the LGBTQ+ community who are interested in living a sober life, including Gayandsober.org, where the LGBTQ+ community can connect with other LGBTQ+ people living a sober life, and Inspire Recovery, where the LGBTQ+ community can seek resources to achieve and maintain sobriety.  

Be an Advocate

Everyone, regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, or race, should receive competent, compassionate, and inclusive medical care. As Nurses, we must always advocate for our patients and strive to provide every person with the best possible care. To help reduce health disparities in the LGBTQ+ community, Nurses should educate themselves on how to care for people within the community and advocate for health screenings and competent medical care for every individual.  

To learn more about how Nurses can better serve the LGBTQ+ community, consider checking out these resources.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention: LGBTQ Health Services

Nurses(Heale)

GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ Equality

U.S Department of Health and Human Services

Patient education is a crucial aspect of the Nursing practice, because it empowers patients to take an active role in their own healthcare. Nurses serve as educators, providing patients and their families with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Patient education provides a better understanding of their health conditions, treatment options, and self-care strategies, leading to better health outcomes.

“The more clearly a disease is understood, the more likely it is that an individual will be comfortable with their care and adhere to necessary regimens,” according to research published in Seminars in Oncology Nursing. 

Here are some key points regarding the role of Nurses in patient education and health promotion:

Assess Learning Needs

Nurses assess the patient's learning needs by considering factors such as their health literacy, cultural background, language proficiency, and individual preferences. This assessment helps Nurses tailor educational interventions to meet the patient's specific needs.

Provide Clear and Accessible Information

Healthcare professionals simplify medical information and relay it in a clear and understandable manner. They use plain language and avoid medical jargon to ensure patients can comprehend and retain the information provided.

Educational resources can be customized and printed out for patients with the touch of a button. Make sure the patient’s individualized needs are addressed. Don't simply hand the patient a stack of papers to read, review them with patients to ensure they understand the instructions and answer questions that arise.

Utilize Various Teaching Methods

There are a variety of teaching methods Nurses can use, such as verbal explanations, visual aids, written materials, videos, interactive computer programs, and demonstrations. Nurses adapt their teaching strategies to accommodate different learning styles for better patient understanding.

Providing education using different methods reinforces teaching. Patients have different learning styles so ask if your patient learns best by watching a DVD or by reading. A hands on approach where the patient gets to perform a procedure with your guidance is often the best method.

Teach Self-Management Skills

Self-management skills are taught to patients so they can effectively manage their health conditions. This includes instruction on how to administer medication, wound care, monitoring symptoms, lifestyle changes, and recognizing signs of complications.

Work With Family Members

Family members play important roles in the care of patients including contribution to decision-making, assisting the health-care team in providing care, improving patient safety, and assisting in home care. When Nurses include family members in patient teaching, it improves the chances that  instructions will be followed. 

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Nurses play a major role in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing diseases. They educate patients on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, tobacco cessation, stress management, and immunizations, empowering them to make positive lifestyle choices.

Support Shared Decision-Making

Shared decision making (SDM) is when Nurses and patients actively work together to make informed decisions about healthcare options.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has an SDM model called SHARE. This model is designed to examine and analyze healthcare option advantages, disadvantages, and potential risks. The options are identified via meaningful patient-Nurse dialogue that allows the patient to openly express what’s most important to them. The model comprises this five-step process:

Seek your patient’s participation.
Help your patient explore and compare treatment options.
Assess your patient’s values and preferences.
Reach a decision with your patient.
Evaluate your patient’s decision.

Assess Learning Outcomes

It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of the patient's education by assessing their understanding, skills, and confidence in managing their health thus far. This assessment helps identify areas that may need further explanation or modification.

Collaborate with Interdisciplinary Team

Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as Physicians, Pharmacists, Dietitians, and Physical Therapists, to provide comprehensive patient education. This multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive consistent and coordinated information.

By actively engaging in patient education and health promotion, Nurses empower patients to make informed decisions, actively participate in their care, and ultimately improve their overall health outcomes.