LGBTQIA+ inclusive health training in nursing education: An in-depth analysis of the current landscape

LGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face significant health disparities globally, driven by stigma, discrimination, and culturally insensitive healthcare practices. In India, despite progress such as the decriminalization of same-sex relationships in 2018, LGBTQIA+ individuals often encounter marginalization and exclusion within healthcare systems. Nurses, as primary healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in addressing these disparities; however, nursing education frequently lacks adequate training to prepare students for the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ patients. This study aimed to assess the perceptions, confidence, and institutional training of nursing students in India regarding LGBTQIA+-inclusive care. A quantitative, descriptive survey design was employed, involving 90 nursing students who completed a 16 item structured and validated questionnaire. Results revealed that while students exhibited positive perceptions toward LGBTQIA+ individuals, their confidence in performing critical tasks, such as sexual history-taking and physical examinations, was low. Institutional training was also found to be insufficient, indicating gaps in the current curriculum. The findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and practical LGBTQIA+-specific training in nursing education to enhance cultural competence and confidence among future nurses. Addressing these gaps is crucial to reducing health disparities and ensuring equitable, inclusive, and compassionate care for LGBTQIA+ individuals. • This study highlights significant gaps in nursing education regarding LGBTQIA+ healthcare. • Students show positive perceptions but low confidence in clinical tasks like sexual history-taking. • Insufficient institutional training and limited practical exposure were identified as key barriers. • The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive, hands-on LGBTQIA+-specific training.