Improving baccalaureate nursing students’ cultural sensitivity with LGBTQIA+ patients using theater students as standardized patients

Abstract

Background: Healthcare disparities related to sexual orientation and gender identity are inconsistently addressed in nursing education, limiting cultural sensitivity and communication skills in LGBTQIA+ patient care. Methods: A role-play simulation was conducted with BSN students to enhance sexual health histories, utilizing theater students as LGBTQIA+ Standardized Patients (SPs). Results: Students gave positive feedback on real-time input from SPs, which enabled them to reflect on their communication skills when taking sexual health histories from LGBTQIA+ patients. Conclusions: The program offered BSN students in health assessment courses opportunities to practice communication skills and develop inclusivity for the diverse needs of LGBTQIA+ patients.