Delivering culturally competent care to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) population: Education for nursing students

Purpose: Despite well-documented healthcare disparities in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, nursing education has lagged other health professions in promoting culturally competent care to members of this minority group. Methods: Using national guidelines, the author developed an educational program for BSN students to improve competency in providing care for LGBT individuals. One hundred twenty-four students completed online modules and a simulation exercise, which explored LGBT healthcare topics. One hundred eight participants completed surveys pre-, post-, and 1 month after the intervention. Results: Overall LGB competence scores improved from pre- (M = 4.42) to post-test (M = 5.20) and did not significantly decrease at one-month (M = 5.03, p < .001). Similar findings were observed in the transgender cultural competence scores (pre- (M = 4.02); post- (M = 5.08); one-month (M = 4.92, p < .001)). Conclusion: Educational content focused on cultural competency for nurses may lead to improved health outcomes among the LGBT community.