Inclusive care for children and young people with gender dysphoria: educating the workforce
To develop an understanding of the healthcare needs of children and young people with gender dysphoria
To recognise the gaps in gender-inclusive nurse education and how these affect practice
To reflect on your role in creating an inclusive and respectful care environment for transgender patients
Transgender people have reported negative experiences of healthcare service provision, often due to a lack of awareness and education among staff. The challenges experienced by transgender people when accessing healthcare are likely to be even more pronounced for children and young people with gender dysphoria. Nurses working in children’s settings are well placed to create a care environment where children and young people with gender dysphoria feel safe, acknowledged and respected. However, currently there is no mandatory requirement or standardised approach in relation to education and training on transgender health, so some healthcare professionals may lack the foundational knowledge needed to provide gender-inclusive care. This article highlights the urgent need for comprehensive mandatory preregistration education and post-registration training in transgender health to foster inclusive and respectful care for children and young people with gender dysphoria.
