Which of the following statements made by an older adult regarding sex

Which of the following statements made by an older adult regarding sexuality would be of greatest concern for the nurse?

1. “Will this new medication affect my libido?”
2. “What can I do to help with vaginal dryness?”
3. “I really miss the intimacy my husband and I shared.”
4. “It’s so nice not to have to worry about an unwanted pregnancy.”

ANSWER

ANS: 4
This option infers that the client is sexually active and not using protection because there is no longer a possibility of conception. Information about the prevention of sexually transmitted dis-eases should be included when appropriate because there is a growing number of older adults contracting STDs. Many older adults use prescription medications that depress sexual activity, such as antihypertensives, antidepressants, sedatives, or hypnotics. This question requires further education but the statement does not arouse concern regarding the client’s safe sex practices. Physiological changes may have an adverse influence on sexual activity. The older woman may experience vaginal dryness. This question requires further education, but the statement does not arouse concern regarding the client’s safe sex practices. It is a common misconception that older adults are not interested in sex. This statement would require further discussion to assess the de-gree of distress the situation is causing the client, but the statement does not arouse concern re-garding the client’s safe sex practices.