Maird, Balraj

Canadian Bill C-7 hopes to expand the current criteria for medical assistance in dying (MAID) to include individuals with psychiatric disorders. Plans of expanding existing criteria to include psychiatric patients was set to take place in March 2023 but has since been delayed until March 17th, 2027. With this date approaching, it is crucial we identify the potential ethical implications of MAID when offering such a service to psychiatric patients. Literature review of 32 peer reviewed articles. Utilized several databases such as CINAHL, PsychInfo, and MEDLINE. Utilized a matrix format to gather and organize information. As mental illness can disrupt one’s ability to make competent decisions, autonomy cannot be ensured. Not having the ability to control one’s own choices directly violates the core principles of medical ethics and law. The exclusion of psychiatric clients from MAiD disregards psychiatric suffering as less painful than a physical ailment. The vulnerable nature of psychiatric patients caused by both illness and sociocultural factors, puts individuals at considerable risk for the maleficent misuse of MAID as a form of escape or alternative treatment. The correct timing for the introduction of MAID into a patient’s treatment is unclear and improper application may not be beneficent. Poster submission was presented at the Coquitlam campus on April 9, 2024, for Student Research Days 2024.

The LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity when trying to access healthcare services. Issues such as discrimination, lack of access to care and lack of cultural or knowledge competency from the healthcare system are prevalent in today's society and leads to worsening health outcomes. Understanding specific needs of this community can improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction leading to better overall health outcomes for the LGBTQ+ community. Literature review of 20 peer reviewed articles. Utilized several databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Academic Search Complete, MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect. Utilized a matrix format to gather and organize information. After completion of the cultural competency training, the AIM scores increased significantly in all three categories ‚ knowledge and skills, openness and support, and oppression awareness. Implicating this into psychiatric nursing practice, we see the importance of incorporating a solid knowledge base regarding LGBTQ individuals. This can be achieved via workplace workshops, implementation of courses in undergraduate classes, and taking personal responsibility to learn topics on your own time. Reinforces the importance of self-reflection and checking your own personal biases when working with transgender patients. This results in a health care environment that is free from judgment. Poster submission was sponsored by Ruhina Rana, (Health Sciences Department) for Psychiatric Nursing course and was presented at the Coquitlam campus on April 5, 2023, for Student Research Days 2023.