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“She says her name is Grace”: working with and learning from transgender simulated participants

Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

The problem
Significant focus is now placed on promoting diversity and inclusion in healthcare education (1). For transgender people, real or perceived stigma, oppression and discrimination within health care can result in adverse mental health outcomes (2). There is a need for educators and learners
to engage with members of the transgender community to ensure learning experiences are safe, effective, and respectful.
What was done
We developed an innovative learning experience on therapeutic communication with transgender people. We engaged with several transgender actors to develop the simulation scenario and script to ensure it was reflective of their lived experience. The aim of the program was for students to gain empathy for transgender people and to demonstrate respectful language and communication skills. The actors portrayed the role to over 600 pre-registration Diploma and Bachelor and Diploma of Nursing students.
Why is the work important
By equipping our students for appropriate gender- affirming care, it is envisaged that this will have
a positive impact amongst the transgender community in our healthcare system, improving their mental health and quality of life.
Findings
Students explored respectful language and gained a deeper understanding of transgender health issues. They gained an awareness of what transgender people face when navigating the healthcare system, and how they can better support transgender patients.
References
1. Picketts, L., Warren, M. D., & Bohnert, C. (2021). Diversity
and inclusion in simulation: addressing ethical and psychological safety concerns when working with simulated participants. BMJ Simulation & Technology Enhanced Learning, 7(6), 590. 2. Kcomt, Luisa, Kevin M. Gorey, Betty Jo Barrett, and Sean Esteban McCabe. “Healthcare avoidance due to anticipated discrimination among transgender people: a call to create trans- affirmative environments.” SSM-Population Health 11 (2020): 100608.
Original languageEnglish
Pages88
Number of pages1
Publication statusPublished - May 2023
Externally publishedYes
EventInternational Clinical Skills Conference 2023 - Prato, Tuscany, Italy
Duration: 21 May 202324 May 2023
Conference number: 9th
https://internationalclinicalskillsconference.com/uploads/2023%20ABSTRACTS_online.pdf (Abstract book)
https://internationalclinicalskillsconference.com/uploads/2023%20PRATO%20PROGRAMME_online.pdf (Program)

Conference

ConferenceInternational Clinical Skills Conference 2023
Abbreviated titlePrato 9
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityPrato, Tuscany
Period21/05/2324/05/23
Internet address

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

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