1- College of Nursing/University of Thi-Qar , hussein-ab@utq.edu.iq
2- College of Nursing/University of Thi-Qar
3- Nursing Department, Technical Institute-Nasiriya/Southern Technical University, Thi-Qar, Iraq.
Abstract: (323 Views)
Background: Patients with myocardial infarction (MI) often experience sexual concerns, yet sexual counseling remains underutilized. This study explored barriers to sexual counseling for MI patients from the perspective of nurses in southern Iraq.
Methods: This cross-sectional study used a convenience sample of 126 nurses (response rate 89%) from a specialized heart center in 2023. Perceived barriers related to patients, nurses, and organizations were assessed by a valid adapted questionnaire. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 27) was used for data analysis, with the use of descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and independent t-tests. P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered as significant.
Results: Religious issues (3.01±0.49), confidentiality concerns (2.92±0.55), and patient reluctance to discuss sex (2.87±0.54) were the most significant patient-related barriers. High workload (2.92±0.42), cultural beliefs (2.82±0.51), and nurse discomfort discussing sex (2.79±0.50) were the leading nurse-related barriers. Lack of administrative support (2.81±0.47), feedback mechanisms (2.77±0.51), and unsuitable consultation environment (2.76±0.53) were the primary organizational barriers. No significant relationships were found between the barriers and demographic data.
Conclusion: Religious beliefs, confidentiality concerns, and patient reluctance, along with nurses' high workload, cultural norms, and discomfort, pose significant barriers to sexual counseling for MI patients in this setting. Addressing these barriers through education, cultural sensitivity training, and organizational support could improve sexual counseling accessibility for MI patients.
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
General Received: 2024/03/5 | Accepted: 2024/06/1 | Published: 2024/08/20