Judith A Shell1. 1. Medical Family Therapist, Marriage and Family Therapists, Osceola Cancer Center, Kissimmee, FL 34711, USA. shelljashell@aol.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To briefly review the integration of sexual health into the palliative and end-of-life care settings, and to examine the patient/partner's reaction to the progression into palliative care and how the nurse can contribute to healthy sexual function. DATA SOURCES: Review and research articles. CONCLUSION: Whenever physical and emotional changes take place due to illness, feelings of femininity/masculinity may be threatened. Many patients/partners will feel a sense of contentment and well-being when encouraged to continue or resume a loving and close relationship. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The nurse must examine and assess the patient/partner's reaction to sexual health in the palliative and end-of-life care setting. The nurse can contribute to healthy sexual function through appropriate support and intervention.
OBJECTIVES: To briefly review the integration of sexual health into the palliative and end-of-life care settings, and to examine the patient/partner's reaction to the progression into palliative care and how the nurse can contribute to healthy sexual function. DATA SOURCES: Review and research articles. CONCLUSION: Whenever physical and emotional changes take place due to illness, feelings of femininity/masculinity may be threatened. Many patients/partners will feel a sense of contentment and well-being when encouraged to continue or resume a loving and close relationship. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The nurse must examine and assess the patient/partner's reaction to sexual health in the palliative and end-of-life care setting. The nurse can contribute to healthy sexual function through appropriate support and intervention.