Sexual counselling in the neuroscience setting: theory and practical tips for nurses

Human sexuality and sexual function may be profoundly affected by a number of neurologic illnesses and injuries. While nurses have historically supported the value of the holistic approach to patient care, sexuality (as a routine component of the recovery process) has frequently been neglected. Nurses' discomfort with this topic must be addressed in order to maximize patients' adjustment to any sexual changes. The purpose of this presentation is to reduce some of the anxiety surrounding the topic of sexuality, by suggesting strategies which nurses may find useful in approaching the subject and approaches to initiating the discussion outlined. Finally, a theoretical framework for promoting sexual health will be presented and its congruence with popular nursing models briefly examined. "Sexual counselling should be directed as to supporting a client's ability to make choices in every aspect of his life, including use of sexual experience." Comarr & Vigue.