Working with Transgender and Transitioning Patients Years ago, the odds of a medical practice or hospital having a patient that was transgender or transitioning were very slim. Today, however, that is not the case, as it is not uncommon to see diverse lifestyles as society is changing and becoming more accepting of gender identity.
Addressing Patients Appropriately When working with a transgender or transitioning patient, the first consideration is to address the patient properly. If the patient is a current patient, they may have assumed a new name in the process of their transitioning. Inquire as to what they are now to be referred to, and ensure the name is correct on all applicable records.
Acceptance of all Patients Unless you work for a clinic that specializes in transgender patients, you may not have experience in providing care to someone that has elected to change their gender. The reality is, not everyone is as accepting of the changes in society. An individual that has either made the transition, or is planning to, has probably lived a life of torment and ridicule. In most cases, they have been made fun of, bullied, and still did what they felt was necessary for them to have an enjoyable life. As a nurse, you are aware of the Importance of not judging any patient based on your own beliefs. It is your responsibility to treat every patient equally, which entails providing the best care possible. If there is apprehension in your acceptance of all patients, it may be a good idea to educate yourself; you may get a better understanding of what it is like to feel trapped in the wrong body, which are generally the feelings of a transgender individual. Related: Nurse Responsibilities - International Nurses Association
Medical Needs of Transgender People There is a flurry of media attention directed around transgender people. Many find that once their transition process is completed, and they are no longer under the care of the physician that performed the transition, they have difficulty obtaining medical care. According to one study, the overall consensus of transgender patients was that they live on the edge of society, facing stigma, discrimination, violence and poor health. Medical tests and procedures for transgender patients are often denied by insurance companies, due to the fact that the insurance company views the test as unnecessary for the current gender. Health insurance companies are working to update regulations, however, in the interim a patient may wait