Experiences of Transgender Patients in Healthcare: A Systematic Literature Review
Bhamra, Avtarsingh (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121235583
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121235583
Tiivistelmä
The study explores the experiences of transgender patients in healthcare settings, and it also explores how these insights can help nurses to provide good care. A qualitative systematic literature review was done to find the results from eight peer-reviewed qualitative articles which were published between 2019 and 2025. Data was collected through databases such as MEDLINE, CINHAL, and Academic Search Elite by using some key terms linked to transgender patients, healthcare experiences, and nursing care.
The analysis showed various frequently occurring challenges faced by transgender patients, which included misgendering, use of incorrect pronouns, discrimination, refusal of care, lack of knowledge, communication, and documentation, as well as physical or psychological abuse. These experiences led to stress, fear, and avoidance of healthcare settings. However, there were some positive encounters too, especially when there was respect, correct use of pronouns, and positive allyship. The results emphasize the role of nurses in providing gender-affirming, culturally competent care. Including transgender health into nursing education, promoting practices that are reflective, and having inclusive policies are important for improving patient outcomes. Further research is needed to evaluate nursing interventions and advocacy initiatives that improve the healthcare experiences of transgender patients.
The analysis showed various frequently occurring challenges faced by transgender patients, which included misgendering, use of incorrect pronouns, discrimination, refusal of care, lack of knowledge, communication, and documentation, as well as physical or psychological abuse. These experiences led to stress, fear, and avoidance of healthcare settings. However, there were some positive encounters too, especially when there was respect, correct use of pronouns, and positive allyship. The results emphasize the role of nurses in providing gender-affirming, culturally competent care. Including transgender health into nursing education, promoting practices that are reflective, and having inclusive policies are important for improving patient outcomes. Further research is needed to evaluate nursing interventions and advocacy initiatives that improve the healthcare experiences of transgender patients.