Abstract
AIM: This study evaluated the effects of a program designed to help students provide culturally competent care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning/queer, intersex, plus (LGBTQI+) patients.
BACKGROUND: The LGBTQI+ community faces disparities linked to stigma and discrimination. The Advocacy(TM) Program was developed to supplement the curriculum in schools of nursing.
METHOD: Nursing students from six schools of nursing (n = 1,398) received advocacy training. Students were administered the Genderism and Transphobia Scale, the Homonegativity Scale, and additional knowledge questions before and after training.
RESULTS: The findings were positive, indicating an increase in student attitude scores, vocabulary and disparity knowledge, and knowledge regarding care for an LGBTQI+ client (p < .05).
CONCLUSION: By building a culture of inclusion through recognition of diverse patients in the curriculum, nursing schools can develop a culture of connection that strengthens patient-provider relationships and improves mental and physical health.