Factors Influencing Nurses' Culturally Competent Cancer Care for LGBT Individuals in Taiwan: A Qualitative Study Applying the Socio-Ecological Model

Aims: This study explored the factors associated with oncology nurses' behaviour and intention to provide cancer care to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals in Taiwan. Design: A qualitative descriptive study. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 oncology nurses between August and October 2023. The interview data were analysed using the framework method (the socio-ecological model) and constant comparative techniques. Results: Factors associated with oncology nurses' behaviour and intentions to provide cancer care for LGBT individuals were categorised and presented by the levels of the social-ecological model: (1) intrapersonal level: oncology nurses' attitudes toward LGBT populations and their experiences, confidence, and beliefs in providing cancer care for LGBT individuals; (2) interpersonal level: concerns or interactions with oncology nurses' colleagues, other heterosexual cancer patients, and managers; (3) community and organisation levels: organisational climate and related training courses; and (4) societal and policy level: policy regarding sexual orientation, gender identity collection, and social atmosphere. Conclusion: Multilevel barriers associated with oncology nurses' behaviours and intentions to provide cancer care to LGBT individuals were identified. The study findings emphasised the importance of related training courses offered by organisations to reduce cancer care disparities among LGBT individuals. These courses also aim to enhance oncology nurses' confidence and comfort in delivering holistic and patient-centred cancer care for this population. Impact: The study findings can be employed to assist in developing related training courses and understand the challenges oncology nurses face when providing cancer care to LGBT individuals. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contributions.