What it means
An umbrella term for people whose sexual orientation, gender identity or sex characteristics differ from the majority. The plus sign includes identities not named in the letters. Shorter forms such as LGBTQ, LGBTQ+ and LGBT mean much the same and are also common.
For the nurse
Ask every client their name, pronouns and gender identity in a respectful, matter-of-fact way, and use the words they use. Keep this information private. Care that feels unwelcoming leads some clients to avoid health care, so an open manner affects health.
At a glance
| Also written | LGBTQ, LGBTQ+, LGBT |
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Related terms
gender expression
The way a person shows their gender to others, through clothing, hairstyle, voice, name and behavior.