Clinician and Interdisciplinary Staff Perspectives on LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Inpatient Pediatrics

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Healthcare
• LGBTQ+ Health Equity
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Limited understanding of healthcare experiences for pediatric patients and families with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities (SO-GI) in inpatient settings.
• Need for improved inclusive practices within pediatric healthcare environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the perspectives of pediatric inpatient healthcare providers and staff on caring for children and families with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other nonheterosexual and noncisgender (LGBTQ+) identities.
• To identify common themes, barriers, and opportunities for enhancing inclusive care for LGBTQ+ pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Inductive qualitative study design.
• Conducted at a 290-bed children's hospital.
• Analysis of 19 semistructured individual interviews using thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Identified challenges and opportunities in collecting and utilizing sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) information.
• Overarching themes included discomfort due to anti-LGBTQ+ culture, awareness of harm from missed opportunities, and a desire for growth through education and protocols.
• Significant variations in awareness and application of inclusive practices were noted.

Conclusions:

• Study highlights a gap in literature regarding LGBTQ+ care in inpatient pediatric settings.
• Opportunities exist to enhance inclusivity and patient-centered care for LGBTQ+ pediatric patients and families.
• Implementation of targeted education and standardized protocols can foster a more equitable healthcare environment.