Question

A hospital unit is welcoming a new group of nurses after they have completed orientation. While introducing the nurses, the manager states that the unit is lucky because they are working with Tom Smith RN who is transgender. All present at the meeting turn to Tom, and watch as his smile turns to a frown and he looks down at his feet. Which workforce issue has occurred?

A). Homophobia

B). Heterosexism/Heteronormativity

C). Microagression

D). Violation of privacy

Answer 1

The correct answer is D. The workforce issue that occurred is a violation of privacy. The manager's action of announcing Tom Smith RN's transgender status without consent inappropriately exposes personal information and could create an unwelcoming work environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

By unnecessarily disclosing Tom Smith's transgender status to the entire unit, the manager has committed a violation of privacy. It is inappropriate to share personal details about an employee's gender identity without their explicit consent. The discussion of an employee's gender identity, especially when not relevant to their job performance or duties, should be regarded as confidential health information. In this scenario, the manager's actions have led to a situation where Tom is placed in an uncomfortable spotlight, which could result in an unwelcoming work environment. Moreover, such an incident could discourage Tom and others from seeking support when needed, out of fear of unwanted attention or further breaches of privacy.

Advocacy organizations stress the importance of respecting LGBTQ individuals' privacy and advocate against discrimination. Instances like this, where a manager publicly discloses someone's transgender status, can not only lead to a feeling of being outed but also contribute to a culture of microaggressions and undermine professional respect in the workplace.