5 Ways to Create a Safer ASC for LGBTQIA+ Patients and Staff

Failing to acknowledge someone’s gender or sexual identity poses a safety issue on many levels says Heather Kuykendall, DNP, RN.

Consider if a female patient presents as male and needs an x-ray. A staff member should know how to inquire about a potential pregnancy. Otherwise, a fetus could be at risk, Kuykendall says. “The patient’s dignity may also be at risk if they aren't advised in a way that respects their identity.”

Research shows that people who identify as LGBTQIA+ are more likely to encounter discrimination in healthcare. This leads to further health disparities because poor past experiences can make them hesitant to seek preventive or even emergency care.

Kuykendall wanted to change this in her ASC, and she succeeded. She spearheaded significant changes to policy, patient record, and internal culture for LGBTQIA+ patients and staff.

And now, she’s sharing her successes in her poster on the topic at AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo 2024 in Nashville.

Here are five ways Kuykendall suggests any ASC can help create a safer LGBTQIA+ space:

1. Revise your electronic health record (EHR) to include more comprehensive gender options beyond male and female, as well as fields for pronouns and preferred names.

2. Empower staff with the knowledge and comfort to communicate effectively with LGBTQIA+ patients and families. Staff should prioritize respecting a patient’s support person, regardless of how that relationship is defined.

3. Take a proactive and facility-wide stand to support LGBTQIA+ patients and staff. This requires leadership and management to establish a very clear non-discrimination policy. Every team member should embrace these changes, no matter how small, such as including pronouns in employee emails and profiles.

4. Demonstrate visible support for LGBTQIA+ non-profits in the community throughout the year, not just during Pride Month.

5. Encourage all patients to feel comfortable and empowered to express themselves within your ASC. Consider implementing gender-neutral/inclusive restrooms and signage to promote inclusivity.

Kuykendall will be among the poster authors presenting their research at AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo, taking place from March 9-12 in Nashville.