Magnet nurse administrator attitudes and opportunities: toward improving lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender-specific healthcare.

OBJECTIVE

This study explored Magnet® hospital chief nursing officers' (CNOs') attitudes toward gays and lesbians and the impact that these attitudes have on providing advocacy for lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) patients and staff.

BACKGROUND

Homonegativity encompasses both heterosexism and homophobia and has profound effects on the health of LGBT populations. Little has been reported about the attitudes of CNOs toward LGBT populations and how these might impact advocacy for LGBT healthcare.

METHODS

Surveys were electronically mailed to 343 Magnet CNOs. The Modern Homonegativity Scale was used to assess attitudes, and additional statements were developed to assess the comfort level of the respondent in advocating for LGBT populations.

RESULTS

Attitudes among CNOs toward LGBT populations and comfort with advocating for LGBT populations were positively correlated. Those demonstrating less homonegative attitudes were more likely to feel comfortable advocating for LGBT patients and staff.

CONCLUSIONS

Recognizing and addressing bias among nurse leaders through education are important to ensure equitable healthcare for patients and employees.