Month: March 2023

After watching the video, “Man Gives Birth to His Child”, I reflected on my reactions and feelings if I were assigned this birthing couple/person. My first initial reaction would be to ensure I did not mess up any pronouns. I would want the family to feel safe and secure in the hospital setting. Through actions of inclusivity of their gender and sexuality, I believe they would have a greater opportunity to feel safe and comfortable. I would also treat the family the way I would treat any birthing couple and person; with compassion and patient-centered care. The birthing person had very specific wishes for his labor, as a nurse I would try to include these wishes throughout his labor. In a nutshell, my reaction and feelings would focus on inclusivity and making sure the patient and partner feel welcomed at this hospital.

To make this birthing couple feel welcomed at the hospital it is important to incorporate inclusivity into their care. Some methods to increase inclusivity in the hospital setting would include asking the individuals pronouns and making a conscious effort to say the correct pronoun and ensuring the other members of the team are aware of the correct pronouns. It is also important to explain everything to the patient prior to completing the action, this allows the patient to feel prepared and decline if they don’t feel comfortable. As nurses these actions can help make the patient and their significant others feel comfortable, especially in a vulnerable situation, like childbirth.

In a situation like the situation that was brought up in the video, using female-specific language can impact the delivery of care. Using female-specific terms for someone who identifies as a different gender can create issues with patient-centered care. The patient many feel as though the nurse is not listening or respecting their wishes, this can lead to issues with communication and comfort in the hospital setting. A short-term issue for the patient could include their time at the hospital may be uncomfortable and difficult, they may feel judged or disrespected. Regarding long-term issues, the patient may have anxiety returning to the hospital or assume all healthcare services do not respect their wishes. This can lead to extended periods without care and not attending appointments due to fear or discomfort. Every member of the health care team should be aware of the patient’s pronouns and provide inclusivity regardless of their personal beliefs. This will allow for the best care to be provided to the patient and their family.