Understanding nurses' perceptions of sexual health and function in people requiring haemodialysis

Sexual dysfunction is common for adults receiving chronic haemodialysis; however, renal nurses seldom discuss this topic with patients.

This study aimed to identify renal nurses' attitudes towards providing sexual healthcare and to determine their confidence in discussing sexual dysfunction with adults who are receiving haemodialysis.

An online cross-sectional study.

Renal nurses across Australia and New Zealand (n = 65) who were members of the Renal Society of Australasia provided direct care to adults receiving haemodialysis.

Two questionnaires measuring (1) the frequency of sexual health discussions, levels of knowledge and competence, barriers to discussing sexual dysfunction and views on accountability (Van Ek survey) and (2) communication, practical knowledge, and attitude (sexual health educator for professionals scale) were used. Demographic characteristics were also collected.

Most participants were females (60%) with postgraduate qualifications (61.4%). The average nephrology nursing experience was 13.10 ± 9.14 years. Most renal nurses identified as having positive attitudes (77.2%) about providing sexual healthcare and were confident in communicating with patients about sexual concerns (42.9%), although many nurses (64.35%) rarely did so. Less than one-half (48.6%) indicated feeling competent to discuss sexual dysfunction, and less than one-third (30%) had sufficient knowledge about sexual dysfunction. Barriers were lack of practical training (74.2%) and insufficient time (57.1%). Younger nurses (≤45 years old) and male nurses were significantly more confident in discussing sexual health matters.

Overall, renal nurses had positive attitudes towards discussing sexual health concerns with patients however they rarely did so.