Social Representations of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Among Nurses in Portugal

Abstract Introduction A number of studies in different countries have highlighted discrimination sexual and gender minorities healthcare environments. Although Portugal has made considerable progress the acquisition rights for LGBT people, there are still gaps training health professionals. Among these, nurses at forefront many close interactions with patients. This article aims to ascertain social representations orientation identity among from a sociological perspective. Methods quantitative survey Portuguese was conducted an online questionnaire. The data were collected between May July 2020, participants recruited through Nurses Association. universe study consisted 75,928 nurses, which sample 899 obtained. Results results showed that tended positive attitude towards non-normative orientations identities, they perceived as natural expression human diversity. stronger younger, politically left-leaning without religion, people. vast majority recognized lacked adequate issues significant part expressed need bridge gap, mainly regard identity. Conclusions Policy Implications provides insights into insufficient inclusion matters nursing courses, ongoing, specialized training. Knowledge cultural competencies care people should be guaranteed universal other professionals order reverse reduction their access ensure respect right