ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on sexuality and body image in people receiving palliative care. It aims to highlight why sexuality and body image need to be considered in the palliative-care context. The chapter outlines strategies to assist nurses to discuss and responds to sexuality issues that can arise in the palliative-care setting. Several factors have been identified as major barriers for nurses in addressing sexuality issues. These include lack of knowledge and skills, fear of causing distress, misconceptions regarding sexuality, personal biases and prejudices, or structural issues such as a lack of privacy. The cornerstone of interventions for supporting sexuality has been the P.LI.SS.IT model. Assessment is a key component of the nurse's role, given that the majority of palliative-care patients will not disclose sexuality concerns. Cultural sensitivity is crucial to all areas of palliative-care practice, including sexuality. In some cultures it is inappropriate for staff members to raise or discuss issues related to sexuality with patients of the opposite sex.
