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Review
. 2018 Feb;34(1):60-71.
doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2017.12.003. Epub 2018 Jan 3.

Palliative and End-of-Life Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Cancer Patients and Their Caregivers

Kristin G Cloyes, William Hull, Andra Davis
Review

Palliative and End-of-Life Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Cancer Patients and Their Caregivers

Kristin G Cloyes et al. Semin Oncol Nurs. 2018 Feb.

Abstract

Objective: To identify the unique needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) cancer patients and caregivers, and review recommendations supporting more effective and inclusive palliative and end-of-life care.

Data sources: Published research and clinical guidelines.

Conclusion: Transitions in care raise particular challenges for LGBT patients, including provider communication, perceptions of safety and acceptance, and assessing and respecting patients' definitions of family and spirituality.

Implications for nursing practice: LGBT patients and their caregivers need competent nurses to support them, especially during transitions. Implementing LGBT-inclusive education, training, and practice will improve outcomes for LGBT cancer patients and their caregivers - and potentially all patients.

Keywords: LGBT; end-of-life care; hospice; palliative care.

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References

    1. LGBT HealthLink. http://www.lgbthealthlink.org/. Accessed June 28, 2017.
    1. National LGBT Cancer Network. LGBT best and promising practices throughout the cancer curriculum: palliative and end of life care. 2017 https://cancer-network.org/reports/lgbt-best-and-promising-practices-thr.... Accessed December 13, 2017.
    1. Acquaviva K. LGBTQ-Inclusive Hospice and Palliative Care A Practical Guide to Transforming Professional Practice. 1st. New York, NY: Harrington Park Press; 2017. - PubMed
    1. Ferrell B, Coyle N, Paice J. Oxford Textbook of Palliative Nursing. 4th. New York: Oxford University Press; 2015.
    1. Cherny N, Fallon M, Kaksa S, Portneoy R, Currow D. Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine. 5th. New York: Oxford University Press; 2015.

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