One of the primary roles of a nurse is the role of advocate.

at
Categories
Tags

One of the primary roles of a nurse is the role of advocate. Teenagers’ needs are best met through emotional support and advocacy. The Christian worldview supports compassionate care as does the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics located in the topic Resources. Provision 1 states that “the nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth and unique attributes of every person.” As nurses, our calling is to support the needs and vulnerabilities of our patients, regardless of our own personal beliefs. Teenagers today who may be questioning their sexuality and gender identity are entitled to and deserving of our support.

You are a nurse at a School-Based Health Center where a teenager disclosed that they are struggling with an LGBTQIA+ issue. Discuss how you would respond to this student. Explain what research has shown about the potential outcomes for teenagers who are not supported when in this difficult questioning period of “who they are.” Explain how you, as a nurse can demonstrate compassion and support of this student. Provide two resources that you could you offer this student, either locally or online. Be specific with the contact information for your resources.

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “RN-BSN DQ Rubric” and “RN-BSN Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.

 

Sample Solution

As a nurse in a school-based health center, encountering a teenager struggling with LGBTQIA+ issues is a common occurrence. It is essential to respond to these students with compassion, empathy, and support.

Research has shown that LGBTQIA+ teenagers who are not supported can experience a range of negative outcomes, including:

  • Increased risk of mental health problems: LGBTQIA+ youth are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts than their heterosexual and cisgender peers.
  • Substance abuse: LGBTQIA+ youth are also at higher risk of substance abuse.
  • Academic difficulties: Lack of support can negatively impact academic performance and educational outcomes.
  • Social isolation: LGBTQIA+ youth may experience social isolation and rejection from peers, family, or community members.

As a nurse, I would approach this student with empathy and understanding. I would begin by creating a safe and welcoming space for the student to express their feelings and concerns. I would assure them that their identity is valid and important, and that they are not alone.

I would also provide the student with information and resources about LGBTQIA+ issues, including local support groups, counseling services, and online resources. Two specific resources that I could offer are:

These organizations provide support, information, and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families.

By offering compassion, support, and resources, nurses can play a vital role in helping LGBTQIA+ teenagers navigate this challenging time and achieve positive outcomes.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer