A male nurse is assigned to the care of a gay male with alcoholism. This sexual orientation is inconsistent with the beliefs of the nurse. What actions, if any, can the nurse take to provide patient-centered care to this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Examining one's own feelings about alcoholism and gay men specifically and identifying one's own beliefs and values generally is part of the process for developing cultural competence, which should allow one to recognize the uniqueness of patients and to demonstrate respect for individuals. Not acting will not facilitate patient-centered care. The nurse needs to reflect on his feelings about this patient. Determining the patient's degree of risk for contracting the human immunodeficiency virus is based on an assumption that because the patient is gay, he has or will have the human immunodeficiency virus. A discussion with the patient may help the nurse understand him, but will not necessarily provide insight into the nurse's beliefs and feelings.

A Male Nurse Is Assigned to the Care of a Gay