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Allogeneic transplant recipients may experience physiological and psychosocial changes related to sexual function that can significantly impact QOL. Informal discussions with colleagues and observations during patient care revealed that many patients and clinicians were uncomfortable discussing the topic. Clinicians were also unsure of appropriate teaching points for this patient population. Inpatient Transition Nurses reported that they had some patients and family members asking questions related to post transplant sexuality during discharge education; however, they were unsure how to advise them. These issues validated a need to explore the topic further.
Methods, Intervention, & Analysis
A random, retrospective chart audit of post-allogeneic transplant patients was performed to determine the extent of education or counseling performed regarding sexuality.
Results showed minimal to no communication on the topic of sexuality with the allogeneic patient population. It was identified that discussion, education, and assessment of the patient related to sexuality after transplant was infrequently practiced in the BMT clinic setting.
Findings & Interpretation and Discussion & Implications
To better address this important educational need, a patient education tool was developed based on CDC recommendations, literature recommendations, and a list of frequently asked questions posed to the Transition Nurses before discharge. The tool serves to support consistent educational content regarding sexual practices and is reviewed with all patients at the time of inpatient discharge. The tool is again reviewed with allogeneic patients during their day +100 discharge education.
Post-implementation chart audits revealed a 56% increase in RN and MD clinic assessment and education of sexuality at clinic visits and 100% use of the tool for Transition Nurse inpatient discharge education and day +100 discharge education.
The patients are now receiving education regarding an important aspect of QOL and the tool provides a segway for clinicians and the patients to address their concerns related to post transplant intimacy.