Priorities and needs regarding sexual rehabilitation for individuals in the subacute phase post-stroke

Abstract

It is recommended that sexuality be addressed at all transition points along the continuum in stroke rehabilitation. However, little is known about needs specific to the subacute phase. (1) Explore priorities and needs of individuals who have had a stroke regarding sexuality in the subacute phase of stroke rehabilitation, according to both clients and clinicians; (2) Explore clinicians’ perceptions of their professional roles with regard to sexuality rehabilitation after stroke. This qualitative study involved a convenience sample composed of five clients and 15 clinicians. Clinicians were asked to implement an interview guide to assess their clients’ need to address sexuality during rehabilitation. Following implementation, data was collected through individual interviews (n = 6) and focus groups (n = 3). Verbatim were partially co-coded (15%) and analyzed by two independent assessors through a thematic analyzis. The mean age of the five clients (3 female, 2 male) was 67.0 years-old (S.D. 4.6) and clinicians included a psychologist and occupational, physical and speech language therapists. Three themes emerged: (1) Sexuality: a secondary priority, (2) Clients’ needs: just talk about it!, and (3) professional roles. Clients and clinicians considered sexuality as important, but a secondary priority to be addressed after more basic activities of daily living. Needs varied among clients regarding sexuality and clinicians shared their respective contribution to the issue while emphasizing interdisciplinarity. This study is among the first to identify priorities and needs related to sexuality for clients in subacute phase of stroke rehabilitation and their clinicians.