Pediatric nurse practitioners' attitudes/beliefs and knowledge/perceived competence in caring for transgender and gender-nonconforming youth.

Abstract

There is a growing number of youth and their parents seeking assistance from care providers related to gender dysphoria and transitional care for transgender and gender-nonconforming(TGNC) youth. The purpose of this study was to determine pediatric nurse practitioners' (PNP) attitudes/beliefs and knowledge/competence in caring for TGNC youth. This cross-sectional descriptive study surveyed PNPs (N = 93) from eight states using two survey instruments to measure attitudes and beliefs and knowledge and perceived competence related to caring for TGNC youth. Eighty-one percent of PNPs reported caring for TGNC youth in their practice. Despite this, only 15% of the PNPs received education related to transgender patients during their advanced practice education. Results showed that attending continuing education offerings related to caring for TGNC patients increases PNP perceived competence as well as knowledge. Attitudes and behaviors towards the transgender population were also more positive if the PNP had attended continuing nursing educationofferings. Three themes emerged from a qualitative portion of the survey, asking the participant to share thoughts related to caring for transgender youth: lack of education for healthcare providers, the need to refer patients to comprehensive gender services, and the need for support for transgender patients and their families. Education plays an important part in nurses' attitudes, beliefs, and perceived competence in caring for transgender patients. Because the PNP is likely to be exposed to patients with TGNC, it is imperative they seek out opportunities to learn about transgender issues and caring for transgender patients.