6 Tips for Trans-Inclusive Care
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Be informed by knowing general info (terminology, anatomy, effects of hormones, surgeries available, etc.) so when someone asks you about something trans-related, you're prepared to be informative and affirming.
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Stay up-to-date with ongoing trans-related legislation, and become engaged in your hospital or facility's trans-related policies. Advocate for inclusivity (often meaning gender-neutrality) and mindful protocols when you can.
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Ask what gender pronouns your patient uses, and be sure to note and use their correct pronouns (even if it doesn't "align" with their chart).
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Also, share your pronouns! Normalizing the practice of asking and affirming pronouns is important not just if your patient is trans, but also to inform and respect non-trans patients.
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If relevant to your work -- and only if relevant to your work -- ask what terminology your patient prefers to use when talking about gendered parts of their body, and default to gender-neutral terms if you're unsure (ex. chest vs. breasts; genitals vs. penis/vagina; monthly cycle vs period/menstruation; etc).
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Be aware of trans-specific local centers and online resources that can accommodate your patient.
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Be a model ally and advocate for your colleagues, patients, and the families of your patients. Some tips here.
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Being an impactful ally can be as simple as using your patient's correct pronouns and respectfully correcting your colleagues if they misspeak.
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Attend relevant trans-related conferences. The 16th Annual Philadelphia Trans Health Conference will be September 7-9th in Philadelphia. Registration is open!
Below is "The Genderbread Person" and some of the many spectrums that all of us humans find ourselves on -- gender identity (in your brain), gender expression (how you present yourself), biological sex (what's between your legs), and sexual orientation (in your heart, who you find cute and might like to cuddle).
From itspronouncedmetrosexual.com, originally by Bruce Lawson.
