Nurse's Pocket Guide

SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
clinical nurse specialist or professional sex therapist, family
counseling).
NURSING PRIORITY NO. 3. To promote wellness (Teaching/
Discharge Considerations):
• Provide sex education, explanation of normal sexual functioning
when necessary.
• Provide written material appropriate to individual needs
(include list of books related to client’s concerns) for reinforcement
at client’s leisure/readiness to deal with sensitive
materials.
• Encourage ongoing dialogue and take advantage of teachable
moments that occur. Nurse needs to become comfortable
with talking about sexual issue so he or she can recognize
these moments and be willing to discuss the client’s concerns.
• Demonstrate and assist client to learn relaxation and/or visualization
techniques.
• Encourage client to engage in regular self-examination, as
indicated (e.g., breast/testicular examinations).
• Identify community resources for further assistance (e.g., Reach
for Recovery, CanSurmount, Ostomy Association, family/sex
therapist).
• Refer for further professional assistance concerning relationship
difficulties, low sexual desire/other sexual concerns (such
as premature ejaculation, vaginismus, painful intercourse).
• Identify resources for assistive devices/sexual “aids.”
Documentation Focus
ASSESSMENT/REASSESSMENT
• Individual findings including nature of dysfunction, predisposing
factors, perceived effect on sexuality/relationships.
• Cultural/religious factors, conflicts.
• Response of SO.
• Motivation for change.
PLANNING
• Plan of care and who is involved in planning.
• Teaching plan.
IMPLEMENTATION/EVALUATION
• Response to interventions/teaching and actions performed.
• Attainment/progress toward desired outcome(s).
• Modifications to plan of care.
Information in brackets added by the authors to clarify and enhance
the use of nursing diagnoses.
614 Cultural Collaborative Community/Home Care