Nurses' Knowledge and Practice Involving Patients' Resuming Sexual Activity Following Myocardial Infarction: Implications for Training

Objective: The main aim of the study was to determine the knowledge level of cardiology nurses in relation to sexual and other lifestyle adjustments required of their patients following myocardial infarction (MI). Design: This descriptive study conducted structured interviews using a data collection...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Australian journal of advanced nursing 2008-09, Vol.26 (1), p.42-52
Main Authors: Leyla Ozdemir, Nuran Akdemir
Format: Article
Language:
Subjects:
Cardiovascular system
Diseases
Myocardial infarction
Nurse and patient
Nursing
Sex instruction
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Summary:Objective: The main aim of the study was to determine the knowledge level of cardiology nurses in relation to sexual and other lifestyle adjustments required of their patients following myocardial infarction (MI). Design: This descriptive study conducted structured interviews using a data collection questionnaire. Setting: Cardiology nurses working in cardiology clinics and outpatient clinics of university hospitals in Turkey. Subjects: The study was completed with 108 nurses. Main outcome measures: Nurses' knowledge and practice pertaining to sexual adjustment issues including changes in sexual activity and the correct sexual practices following MI were measured. Results: Accurate and appropriate responses by nurses to the questions regarding sexual activity in post-MI patients were rare, ranging from 0.9% for nine out of 15 questions to 23.1% for one out of 15 questions. However unmarried nurses' knowledge about the factors influencing patients' sexual activity and post-MI changes affecting their sexual activity was higher than for married nurses. The findings indicated that almost all the nurses (99.4%) did not provide sexual education to post-MI patients due to a lack of knowledge and skill and their perception that sexual issues belong to a patient's private domain. Conclusions: This study expanded the knowledge base regarding the knowledge and skill that should be required for nurses when providing sexual education. The data highlighted nurses' neglect and avoidance in addressing sexual issues due to inadequate knowledge as well as cultural factors. The results clearly suggest the importance of addressing topics regarding sexual life during basic nursing education and continuing education programs.
ISSN:0813-0531
1447-4328