Beyond sexual assessment: lessons learned from couples post radical prostatectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To share selected experiences of advanced practice nurses (APNs) who implemented a home-based nursing protocol related to psychosexual function for couples following radical surgery for prostate cancer.


METHODS
Selected research-based articles, the PLISSIT Model for sexual rehabilitation counseling, and the authors' experiences.


CONCLUSIONS
Five lessons related to communicating about sexuality and intimacy were synthesized from the experience, including examining knowledge and self-awareness regularly, using a structured interview guide to facilitate the process, developing a trusting relationship with the couple, attending to verbal and nonverbal cues, and providing information about the full range of sexual expression.


CONCLUSIONS
Include an assessment of sexual health as an integral part of a general health assessment. Patients do not generally volunteer information about their sexual concerns unless the subject is introduced by the APN.
Monturo
C A
CA
University of Pennsylvania, USA.
Rogers
P D
PD
Coleman
M
M
Robinson
J P
JP
Pickett
M
M
D002985:Clinical Protocols; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D011788:Quality of Life; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D012731:Sex Counseling; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support