Balancing Identity and Safety: Inclusive and Accurate Preoperative Assessments for Transgender Patients

Authors

Nidhi Navaratna, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine Medical Student
Roy G. Soto, Corewell Health East

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

10-11-2025

Abstract

A 28-year-old male patient presented for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patient's sex listed on the electronic medical record, male, matched his self-reported gender identity, and, per hospital policy, a urine pregnancy test was not ordered. During preoperative evaluation, a medication review revealed testosterone therapy, prompting further inquiry. The patient then disclosed being assigned female at birth and expressed fear of discrimination in medical care if he revealed his transgender identity. This case underscores the need for equitable, informed anesthetic care that respects gender identity while ensuring safety. Inclusive preoperative assessments, particularly around pregnancy screening, are essential for affirming patient identity while optimizing safety.

Comments

American Society of Anesthesiologist Anesthesiology Annual Meeting, October 10-14, 2025, San Antonio, TX

Recommended Citation

Navartna N, Soto RG. Balancing identity and safety: inclusive and accurate preoperative assessments for transgender patients. Presented at: American Society of Anesthesiologist Anesthesiology Annual Meeting; 2025 Oct 11; San Antonio, TX. Available from:https://www.abstractsonline.com/pp8/#!/21028/presentation/8091