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Addressing clients' sexual health in occupational therapy practice
Background.:
Sexuality is an important dimension of one's health and well-being. Studies show that occupational therapists regard clients' sexual health as a legitimate domain of practice but do not adequately address it in their clinical work.
Purpose.:
This study aims to describe occupational therapists' perspectives regarding clients' sexual health.
Method.:
This exploratory study surveyed Canadian occupational therapists using an online questionnaire that collected information on beliefs, knowledge, comfort, barriers, and facilitators with regard to addressing sexuality. Descriptive analysis was conducted on questionnaire data, and content analysis was used to organize respondents' comments.
Findings.:
While most respondents believed that addressing sexuality was within their scope, few actually did so in practice. Participants reported comfort with sexuality but identified lack of knowledge as a barrier to addressing clients' sexual health.
Implications.:
This study provided a greater understanding of factors that require consideration for occupational therapists to effectively meet clients' sexual health needs.