Consultation and clinical assessment for advanced clinical practitioners in sexual health
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2022-11-13Date
2022-05-13Author
McPhillips, Hazel
Wood, Alison
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McPhillips, H. and Wood, A. (2022) 'Consultation and clinical assessment for advanced clinical practitioners in sexual health', British Journal of Nursing, 31(9), pp. 478-481.
Abstract
Sexual health is a very important aspect of patient wellbeing, but it is a topic
health professionals still find challenging within patient consultations. The
incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continues to rise highlighting
the need for all advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) to understand the
principles of a sexual health consultation as they may have to support patients
who present with a sexual health concern, not purely those in specialist clinics
and roles. This article provides a comprehensive overview of key points to
include as part of consultation and assessment within this area. Effective communication is a key skill for obtaining a thorough,
clear history, allowing for more accurate differentials and a smoother patient
journey. The environment and body language are two other considerations when
undertaking a sexual health consultation. As with all histories, a systematic
approach is essential and having a solid knowledge of the foundations of sexual
health will enable the ACP to focus this history to obtain pertinent information.