Optimizing Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescent Health: Putting Evidence into Practice.

INTRODUCTION: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents are at higher risk for adverse health outcomes compared to their cisgender and heterosexual peers.

METHODS: Guided by the EPQA standardized reporting system, we implemented an evidence-based practice (EBP) initiative centered on affirmative healthcare for adolescents in two pediatric primary care sites. This initiative revolved around: (1) provider training on healthcare needs of SGM adolescents, (2) the use of two new EHR charting tools for SGM needs, and (3) examination of the EBP initiative using quantitative and qualitative analyses.

RESULTS: Quick-texts tools were used 165 times in 3 months (20.4% compliance). Findings also show providers screened Hispanic patients at a proportionately lower rate (p = .043) as compared to other races and ethnicity. Providers perceived the EBP initiative as informative, feasible, without workflow disruption with suggestions for improvement.

DISCUSSION: This EBP initiative has implications for advanced nursing practice, organizational policy, and health equity.