A nurse wishes to incorporate an assessment of patient sexuality ...

[dbose]

A nurse wishes to incorporate an assessment of patient sexuality into all patient encounters but is concerned about appearing inappropriate. What action by the nurse is best?
 
  a. State, I always ask my patients permission to discuss sexuality. Is this alright?
  b. Wait for the patient to bring the subject of sexuality up to the nurse.
  c. Give the patient written material on sexuality, then ask if he/she has questions.
  d. Tell patients that if they have any sexual concerns, you would be happy to discuss them.

Question 2

A patient is recovering from colostomy surgery and states, I guess I'll never be able to have sex again...who would want me? What nursing diagnosis is most important for this patient?
 
  a. Sexual dysfunction
  b. Ineffective sexuality pattern
  c. Knowledge deficit
  d. Ineffective coping

[stillxalice]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
A matter-of-fact, organized approach to sexuality will decrease anxiety in both patient and nurse. Stating that all patients are asked about this topic makes it appear to be a normal part of the assessment. The other options put the responsibility for discussing sexuality on the patient, when the nurse should be directing the process.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Ineffective sexuality patterns refer to a patient who expresses concern about his/her own sexuality. This patient is concerned about the effect of this surgery on his/her attractiveness and desirability. Sexual dysfunction relates more to the physical problems. The patient may have a knowledge deficit or ineffective coping, but these are not apparent from the question.

[dbose]

TYSM

[at]

Excellent