Attitudes of practitioners to lesbian, gay and bisexual clients

Many health-care workers have a negative attitude towards their lesbian, gay and bisexual clients. Negative attitudes regarding same-sex attractions appear to be deeply ingrained in the majority of nurses' minds as a result of the socialization process. It is vital that nursing embraces issues related to sexual orientation so that quality health care can be provided for all. Doctors also have a responsibility to address the issue of homophobia both within their profession and in relation to their clients. To facilitate this, a framework using a sexual health model should be employed as this would encourage the clinician to contemplate these sensitive issues. This article will explore the attitudes of nurses and will outline the implications for care and education.