SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION - THE TEACHING OF RENAL DIALYSIS AND TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS

Sexual dysfunctions receive limited attention in education programs fo r dialysis and transplant populations. This article addresses how the staff nurse, without advanced preparation in sexual counseling, can fu nction as a teacher providing sexual health guidance. Using the struct ure of the NANDA diagnoses of Sexual Dysfunction and Altered Patterns of Sexuality and the PLISSIT intervention model, learning goals and te aching strategies are identified. Teaching, which falls within the pur view of the first three levels of the PLISSIT model, can be accomplish ed through active listening, using communication which elicits feeling s, demonstrating acceptance, giving permission to discuss the topic, p roviding basic information about sexual complications, helping patient s identify, their goals, and assisting with limited problem solving. C ompetent staff nurses have such skills, knowledge, and awareness.