Promoting better care for stigmatised patients

Abstract

This article discusses the role of nurses and nurse leaders in the prevention and resolution of patient stigmatisation. The multiple nurse, patient and environmental factors that contribute to difficulties in nurse-patient interactions are outlined. The antecedents and consequences of patient stigmatisation are discussed and leadership strategies for counteracting and preventing patient stigmatisation are explored. The reader is encouraged to reflect on the role of patient stigmatisation in nursing practice and consider ways to promote better care of stigmatised patients.