Sexuality: a challenge for nursing practice
Gamlin, R.
Nursing Times 95(7): 48-50
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0954-7762 PMID: 10326491 Document Number: 505833
This article explores why caring for patients who have concerns about sexuality and body image have remained a challenge to nurses. Also suggested in this article are learning exercises to enable nurses to examine their own attitudes to body image and sexuality. Nurses have failed to address their patients' needs in relation to sexuality because of lack of knowledge, lack of role models, embarrassment, inability to initiate a conversation, belief that it is someone else's responsibility, and belief that an expert is required. Two simple exercises for nurses to carry on such duties include overcoming inhibitions, and role-playing. Nurses need practice in order to become competent in addressing patients' sexual concerns. Nurses can lead the way by using these exercises at work and then applying the principles in their interactions with patients.