Providing trans-affirming care for sexual assault survivors: An evaluation of a novel curriculum for forensic nurses

Abstract Background Transgender (trans) persons experience high rates of sexual victimization, face discrimination by healthcare providers, and may have unique and diverse needs post-victimization. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive trans-specific training among healthcare professionals, including nurses. Objectives Our primary objective was to develop and evaluate a novel curriculum for its efficacy in improving the competence of forensic nurses in providing sensitive, informed, and appropriate healthcare services for trans survivors of sexual assault. Methods The curriculum was evaluated among forensic nurses working in sexual assault treatment centres across Ontario, Canada. Forty-seven nurses participated in this study, all of whom were selected by their respective programs to receive in-depth formal Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner training. Changes in participants' perceived expertise and competence in providing trans-affirming care were assessed on a 5-point Likert scale (5 being the highest level) using pre- and post-training questionnaires. Participants were asked to indicate their level of agreement with 31 competency-based statements, which were organized thematically into four domains: Initial Assessment, Medical Care, Forensic Examination, and Discharge and Referral. A clinical vignette assessed participants' demonstrated competence in providing care across four questions. Results Participants level of expertise improved significantly from pre- to post-training (Mean [M] = 1.89, Standard Deviation [SD] = 0.84 vs. M = 3.47, SD = 0.62, p Conclusions The curriculum may have relevance to the more 5000 members of the International Association of Forensic Nurses who practice and support forensic nursing across the globe, as well as other healthcare professionals.