Taking a sexual history: the role of the nurse

Patients' sexual health and well-being are important considerations for nursing practice in many clinical areas, but particularly for gynaecology nurses. This article discusses the problems many nurses encounter when taking a sexual history, and concentrates on the support and needs of gynaecology nurses. A survey to establish the practice of taking sexual histories by gynaecology nurses in different hospital departments is described. The results of the survey suggest that gynaecology nurses need clear guidelines and policies for sexual history-taking, supported by education and training.