Which sentence would best introduce the topic of sexuality with a patient who recently had nerve-sparing prostate cancer surgery?

Which sentence would best introduce the topic of sexuality with a patient who recently had nerve-sparing prostate cancer surgery?

• A. Are you in a sexual relationship now?
• B. I know that you are concerned about achieving an erection after prostate surgery.
• C. Many men feel concerned about their sexuality after prostate surgery.
• D. You are lucky that with nerve-sparing surgery, you will not experience sexual difficulties.

Answer: (C)

Opening a discussion about sexuality after prostate cancer treatment should normalize the topic and invite the patient to share concerns at their own pace. Saying that many men feel concerned about their sexuality after surgery does exactly that: it acknowledges a common reaction without assuming the patient’s exact feelings, avoids pressuring them, and signals that the nurse is approachable and supportive. This kind of language creates a safe space for honest conversation, which is essential for patient-centered care and planning about sexual health, expectations, and possible options. The other phrasing choices are less effective because they introduce pressure, presuppose feelings, or give false reassurance. Asking about whether the patient is in a sexual relationship can feel intrusive and irrelevant at this stage. Stating that the patient is concerned about achieving an erection presumes a specific concern and centers on one aspect of sexuality rather than opening a broader conversation. Claiming there will be no sexual difficulties provides inaccurate reassurance and can shut down discussion about potential changes and management strategies.

Opening a discussion about sexuality after prostate cancer treatment should normalize the topic and invite the patient to share concerns at their own pace. Saying that many men feel concerned about their sexuality after surgery does exactly that: it acknowledges a common reaction without assuming the patient’s exact feelings, avoids pressuring them, and signals that the nurse is approachable and supportive. This kind of language creates a safe space for honest conversation, which is essential for patient-centered care and planning about sexual health, expectations, and possible options.

The other phrasing choices are less effective because they introduce pressure, presuppose feelings, or give false reassurance. Asking about whether the patient is in a sexual relationship can feel intrusive and irrelevant at this stage. Stating that the patient is concerned about achieving an erection presumes a specific concern and centers on one aspect of sexuality rather than opening a broader conversation. Claiming there will be no sexual difficulties provides inaccurate reassurance and can shut down discussion about potential changes and management strategies.