The integral role of nurses in primary care for transgender people: A qualitative descriptive study.

Abstract

To understand nursing activities, training and key supports needed to provide primary care to transgender individuals. Discrimination, limited practitioner knowledge and a deficiency of services contribute to health care barriers for transgender individuals. Literature demonstrating how primary care services are delivered, and more specially the role of nurses in this care, is lacking. Qualitative description methodology and interviews were used to describe this phenomenon. Participants included nurse practitioners, registered nurses and registered practical nurses. Nurses are important in providing primary care to transgender individuals. While NPs worked to full scope of practice, RNs' and RPNs' roles could be optimized. A key challenge was lack of education; however, mentorship and collaboration contributed to competency development. Ensuring the workplace provided gender-affirming care was key to a safe and inclusive environment. Supporting nurses to develop capacity and work to full scope of practice can improve access to care. Ongoing opportunities for mentorship and ensuring an inclusive workplace will aid in the provision of care for this vulnerable population. Development of organisational policies, staff training and appropriate supports, for role optimization and team collaboration, can eliminate barriers experienced by transgender individuals.