Date of Publication
2024
Abstract
Background: Inclusive language is the avoidance of terms or expressions that could be considered sexist or biased against any group of people. When providing care to LGBTQ+ patients, health care providers often struggle with the use of inclusive language. Evidence reveals education on inclusive language improves the knowledge, comfort, and confidence of health care providers, nurses, and medical students LGBTQ+. Patients report higher patient satisfaction and better clinical outcomes with providers who use inclusive terminology.
Purpose: This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to increase the health care team’s knowledge and comfort in the use of LGBTQ+ inclusive language by December 2023.
Methods: The project site was a rural primary care clinic in a northeastern state. Preliminary data was collected to determine whether preferred pronouns and gender identify information was documented in the electronic health record (EHR). Education on LGBTQ+ inclusive language was delivered to healthcare providers and supporting staff. Resources to support the use of LGBTQ+ inclusive language were distributed.
Findings: The documentation of preferred pronouns and gender identity in the electronic health record was 100% (n=106). After the intervention, the post-education survey revealed participant’s (n=17/22) agreed that knowledge and comfort level increased in relation to use of LGBTQ+ inclusive language. Post intervention, 88% of participants planned to take action to apply gender inclusive language in the workplace.
Conclusion: Education on inclusive language improved the knowledge and comfort of health care staff. Taking action to apply gender inclusive care language is essential to providing patient-centered care.
Keywords: LGBTQ+ health education, inclusive language
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Recommended Citation
Burtschi, Corinne Marie and Keiffer, Melanie, "Improving the Use of LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language Among the Health Care Team" (2024). College of Nursing and Health Sciences Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Project Publications. 154.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/cnhsdnp/154
DNP Project Poster on LGBTQ+ Healthcare Educational Seminar