Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

The correct answer is to address the patient using their preferred name and pronouns. This approach demonstrates respect for the patient's gender identity and aligns with best practices in providing inclusive, patient-centered care. While legal documents may not reflect the patient's gender identity, healthcare providers should prioritize the patient's preferences in their interactions.

Documenting both the patient's legal name and preferred name is important for continuity of care and legal purposes, but this should be done in addition to addressing the patient as they prefer, not instead of it. Referring the patient to a social worker or ignoring their request could be seen as dismissive and may harm the therapeutic relationship. Using only the legal name disregards the patient's expressed preferences and may cause distress or feelings of invalidation.