| Abstract [eng] |
Background. There are many attitudes and beliefs regarding the sexuality of patients with mental health problems, especially if their condition requires inpatient treatment. Studies show that healthcare workers do not discuss sex-related issues as often as patients expect and need. The aim of the study was to investigate the attitudes of medical staff working in a psychiatric hospital towards patients' sexual health in terms of knowledge, emotional comfort, the influence of the patient and colleagues, and established work practice habits. Methods. A sample of 84 medical personnel working in a psychiatric hospital was surveyed of which 51 % were mental health nurses, 18 % were psychiatrists, 19 % were medical residents and 12 % were clinical psychologists. An anonymous 5-point Likert scale was used to assess respondents' attitudes towards patients' sexual health and sociodemographic characteristics were collected. Results. Only 32.2 % agreed that they had sufficient knowledge of patient sexual health counselling/care; emotional discomfort is common; 54.8 % stated they expect the patient to take the initiative and speak up if they have a sexual health complaint and only 32.3 % of doctors said they inform patients sufficiently about the possible effects of treatments on sexual function. Mental health nurses showed the most concern regarding patients’ reactions (p < 0.001), felt more discomfort talking about sex-related topics (p < 0.001) and had more false beliefs (p = 0.004). Conclusions. The prevailing attitude of psychiatric hospital staff towards patients' sexual health was more negative among nurses and most positive among psychiatrists. The gender and length of service of the respondents had no impact on the attitude. Staff who participated in sexual health training were more positive about working with patients' sexual problems, and respondents with a more positive attitude were more likely to study further. |
