NRNP6552 Response-week 2
Hello Linsey,
Communication on sexual and reproductive health topics is a challenge across a wide
range of medical practice, and an area in which clinicians and other health professionals often
need training (Dehlendorf & Rinehart, 2010). Talking to patients about topics regarding sexual
partners, sexually transmitted infections (STI), abortions, sexual assault, and sexual orientation
can be especially sensitive (Hegde, Sreedaran, & Pradeep, 2018). Some individuals may feel
that they are being judged because of their sexuality and gender identity. Clinicians should not
assume gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation solely from a description of the sexual
partners (Schuiling & Likis, 2017).
Health care conversations about sex can be difficult for both patients and clinicians.
While taking a sexual history, it is crucial to identify sexual problems and concerns. If the
patient has another person present during the health history, it is essential that at some point in
time, the patient is allowed to speak privately with the clinician (Schuiling & Likis, 2017). This
practice is advisable for handling topics that either the clinician or patient find sensitive, such as
sexual health history, safety at home, and mental health concerns (Schuiling & Likis, 2017). It
may also help establish a more open and trusting relationship between you and the patient.
References
Dehlendorf, C., & Rinehart, W. (2010). Communication in reproductive health: Intimate
topics and challenging conversations. Patient Education & Counseling, 81(3), 321–
323. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1016/j.pec.2010.11.001
Hello Linsey,
Communication on sexual and reproductive health topics is a challenge across a wide
range of medical practice, and an area in which clinicians and other health professionals often
need training (Dehlendorf & Rinehart, 2010). Talking to patients about topics regarding sexual
partners, sexually transmitted infections (STI), abortions, sexual assault, and sexual orientation
can be especially sensitive (Hegde, Sreedaran, & Pradeep, 2018). Some individuals may feel
that they are being judged because of their sexuality and gender identity. Clinicians should not
assume gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation solely from a description of the sexual
partners (Schuiling & Likis, 2017).
Health care conversations about sex can be difficult for both patients and clinicians.
While taking a sexual history, it is crucial to identify sexual problems and concerns. If the
patient has another person present during the health history, it is essential that at some point in
time, the patient is allowed to speak privately with the clinician (Schuiling & Likis, 2017). This
practice is advisable for handling topics that either the clinician or patient find sensitive, such as
sexual health history, safety at home, and mental health concerns (Schuiling & Likis, 2017). It
may also help establish a more open and trusting relationship between you and the patient.
References
Dehlendorf, C., & Rinehart, W. (2010). Communication in reproductive health: Intimate
topics and challenging conversations. Patient Education & Counseling, 81(3), 321–
323. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1016/j.pec.2010.11.001
