Deck 13: Intimacy and Sexuality

Question 1

An older adult client recovering from a radical prostatectomy is discussing his postsurgical care plan with the nurse when he expresses concern about long-term impotence.The nurse initially responds:

A)"I'd suggest a consult with a sexuality counselor for you and your partner."
B)"When you've healed sufficiently, we can discuss prosthetic devices that help."
C)"There are medications called phosphodiesterase inhibitors that minimize that problem."
D)"While postsurgical erectile dysfunction is likely, it is generally temporary."

Answer 1

"While postsurgical erectile dysfunction is likely, it is generally temporary."

Question 2

To effectively assess an older adult client's sexual needs, the nurse must initially:

A)reflect upon personal feelings that create barriers to effective communication with the client.
B)be familiar with the sexual needs of the older adult population.
C)assess the client's physical capacity to engage in sexual activities.
D)inform the client of the personal nature of the detailed questioning this assessment requires.

Answer 2

reflect upon personal feelings that create barriers to effective communication with the client.

Question 3

Upon entering the room of a cognitively impaired older adult client, the nurse observes that he is exposed and rubbing his genitals.The nurse's initial concern is to:

A)alert staff to be aware of this new behavior.
B)provide the client with privacy.
C)assess him for possible pain and fever.
D)provide a verbal cue for him to stop the behavior.

Answer 3

assess him for possible pain and fever.

Question 4

A type 2 insulin-dependent diabetic 70-year-old recently experienced the loss of his wife and is experiencing impotence.He is concerned and frustrated about his problem.Besides educating the client to the normal effects of aging on sexual function, the nurse should initially include information regarding:

A)the effect that stress has on sexual performance.
B)the effect of diabetes mellitus on the vascular system.
C)the link between depression and sexual dysfunction.
D)sexual dysfunction related to long-term use of insulin.

Question 5

The charge nurse on an extended care unit recognizes an immediate need for additional unit education regarding sexuality and the older adult when overhearing a staff member state:

A)"I've had to tell her to stop touching my breasts twice today."
B)"Someone needs to tell him to keep his pants zippered."
C)"I realize they have needs but I'm not sure how to handle that."
D)"It's sad that Alzheimer's disease causes them to become sexual perverts."

Question 6

An older adult female client who has multiple sexual partners asks the nurse if the risk for contracting HIV really does increase as we age.The nurse shows the best understanding of this risk when responding:

A)"Any time one engages in sex with multiple partners, the risk for contracting HIV increases."
B)"Changes in vaginal tissue and immune function increase the risk, especially if sex is unprotected."
C)"Unless you are engaging in unprotected oral sex, your risk does not increase substantially."
D)"Yes, your risk of contracting an STD including HIV dramatically increases as you age."

Question 7

Through the open door of the client's room, the nurse observes a male client and his long-term partner in a romantic embrace.The nurse's priority intervention is directed toward:

A)reinforcing for the staff the client's intimacy needs.
B)explaining to the client the challenges that his relationship poses for the staff.
C)offering to discuss the barriers to intimacy that the client and his partner face.
D)quietly closing the door to address the client's right to privacy.

Question 8

A 70-year-old female client shares with the nurse that she has been concerned that recently it takes more time to achieve an organism.The nurse responds most therapeutically when solve

A)"You've described a common result of aging for both men and women."
B)"If you start to experience difficulty achieving orgasms, I'd suggest discussing that with your doctor."
C)"As you get older, your body produces fewer sex hormones, resulting in a need for more stimulation to reach a climax."
D)"I understand your concern. Let's talk more about the changes you've noticed."

Question 9

Which statement made by a nurse reflects a lack of understanding regarding sexual intimacy and the older adult client?

A)"Older adults express less interest in intimacy as both acute and chronic illnesses develop."
B)"Sexual expression is considered an enhancement to the quality of the older adult's life."
C)"Expressing sexual needs may be difficult or impossible for some older adults."
D)"Interest in physical contact tends to persist throughout life for both genders."