Intructions
One of the primary roles of a nurse is that 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.
Complete the following:
Discuss how you would respond to this student, demonstrating compassion and support.
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.”
Provide two resources that you could 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 cite at least two references using APA style.
Answer
When a teen student confides in me that they have an LGBTQIA+ issue, three qualities would inform my first response: safety, validation, and compassion (American Nurses Association, n.d.). These qualities would help me develop an interactive environment devoid of judgment to reaffirm that I would remain confidential with their personal fears in handling this issue. Provision 1 of the ANA Code of Ethics would enhance this response, as I respect the teenager’s unique attributes, worth, and dignity (American Nurses Association, n.d.). Moreover, the provision would guide me in acknowledging the teenager’s courage in disclosing their issue to me. This acknowledgement would validate their concern and create a nurse-patient therapeutic rapport. I would then engage in active listening as they share the inherent fears about their …. To access full answer, use the purchase button below.