I would like to say that I would be fully unbiased and supportive of this couple in every way they need. I can’t help but feel like the difference in the “traditional” birthing setting would truthfully throw me off, and leave me unintentionally biased solely because it is an unusual situation. I gather that this scenario is becoming more popular and increasingly important to understand. I have never encountered the situation, so it is hard for me to judge how I would respond. I only strive for my reaction to emit a positive emotional response in the couple and allow them to feel safe and comforted.
Inclusivity is an ever-changing concept in today’s world. What may have been considered socially acceptable 20 years ago may not be now, or vice versa. I think remaining as true to yourself and your own values, while also recognizing bias, is how a person may encourage inclusivity. This is an especially important concept when a person is in the healthcare setting and is not feeling his or her best. Using empathy and continuous kindness, even if it is not reciprocated by the patient, may prove helpful when attempting to make a patient feel more comfortable during a vulnerable time.
Female-specific language may have positive and negative implications on a patient. In the scenario shown on the video, female-specific language may be offensive to the parties involved. It may be beneficial to ask first, perhaps, what the preferred language may be and continue on based on the patient’s preferences. It is important to make the patient feel comfortable, regardless of beliefs or values. If the patient’s values do not match up with the nurses, which will inevitably happen at least once, I find it would be indicated to remain neutral. This video brought a lot of thinking and awareness to me; I will continue to establish what I may do and how I may react in a situation like this so as to better support my patient.
