The nurse prepares to discharge an older male adult who has heart failure and is in stable condition, when his wife states that she will avoid sexual activities with him because of his heart disease

Question

Which should the nurse use in patient teaching about sexual activity for an older adult with heart failure? a. An older adult with heart failure should avoid sexual relations because of the de-mand it places on his heart.
b. Sexual relations and climbing six flights of stairs expends the same amount of energy.
c. Fear and lack of knowledge can cause older people to reduce their sexual activity unnecessarily.
d. Sexuality is a private matter between the older male adult and his wife.

Answer 1

C

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A Incorrect. With appropriate cardiac rehabilitation, much of his capacity for exer-tion such as sexual activity can be restored.
B Incorrect. The energy expenditure for sexual activity varies but, typically, it is much less than climbing six flights of stairs.
C Correct. Sex is not restricted to young and healthy individuals; thus, the nurse provides the patient and his wife information about resuming sexual intimacy safely.
D Incorrect. The nurse must be prepared to discuss sexual issues with patients and seeks opportunities for discussion about sexual health.