A female patient who sustained a spinal cord injury resulting in paraplegia asks the nurse if she will ever be able to have children. How should the nurse respond?

Question

1. "You should consider adoption if you want to have a family.".
2. "Sexual intercourse will not be pleasurable for you any longer.".
3. "Your rehabilitation specialist will talk to you about this concern.".
4. "It is possible for some women with spinal cord injuries to become pregnant and bear children.".

Answer 1

4
Rationale 1: It is premature for the nurse to suggest adoption.
Rationale 2: The patient has asked about having children, not about sexual intercourse.
Rationale 3: Return to sexual activity is discussed in rehabilitation education, but the patient is asking questions now. The nurse should be prepared to address this concern.
Rationale 4: The nurse should provide valid information without promising that this particular patient will be able to bear children.