One vulnerable population I would like to highlight in my community is the LGBTQIA population. For very real and very personal reasons, I support this population. My middle son came out to me after he turned 19, telling me he was engaged to a man. He has since married his partner and I have since gained a son-in-law who makes me meals and gives me fashion tips. Last year my nephew came out to my sister telling her that he was transgender. He has started the process of becoming a woman. My sister then met a man whose daughter came out to him as transgender. She has also started the process of becoming a man.
Key characteristics of the LGBTQIA population are the diverse identities, youthful population, geographic location, mental health disparities, and social disadvantages (Medina-Martínez et al., 2021). Social disadvantages the LGBTQIA population faces are discrimination and stigma when it comes to different aspects of their lives, education, employment, and seeking healthcare (Medina-Martínez et al., 2021). One health practice that puts this population at risk is their sexual preference. They are at increased risk for sexually transmitted diseases as well as sexual assault. Another risk factor of this population is they may delay seeking care due to fear or discrimination (Medina-Martínez et al., 2021).
As an advanced nurse, I can carry out various interventions to reduce health inequities in LGBTQIA people by offering programs on inclusive sex education, sexual and gender diversity, bullying, and suicide prevention (Medina-Martínez et al., 2021). I can also advocate for this population, by creating safe inclusive places for care, engaging with the community to provide support, and participating in campaigns to raise public awareness thus reducing the stigma surrounding the LGBTQIA community. Wyoming has a very conservative closed-minded mentality surrounding the LGBTQIA community. It’s still very much the cowboy way around here. Luckily one community is becoming more progressive. Casper, Wyoming has a local pride festival where members of the LGBTQIA are free to be as they are and feel welcomed. During this festival, businesses set up booths, educate, discuss, and talk with members of the community about the services offered all while raising awareness. Finally, I can work with national organizations like the Nurse Association to promote health equality and raise awareness for the LGBTQIA community.
Reference
Medina-Martínez, J., Saus-Ortega, C., Sánchez-Lorente, M. M., Sosa-Palanca, E. M., García-Martínez, P., & Mármol-López, M. I. (2021). Health inequities in LGBT people and nursing interventions to reduce them: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(22), 11801.
