Sexual myths of midwifery and nursing students and their attitude regarding the assessment of sexual health

Abstract

Aim:This study was aimed out to determine the sexual myths and personal opinions of midwifery and nursing students regarding the assessment of sexual health of individuals under their care.Method: This descriptive research was carried out with 254 students receiving education in the midwifery and nursing department of a state university. Research data was collected using Personal Information Form and Sexual Myths Scale (SMS).Findings: 89,4% of the students regarded assessment of sexual health as a requirement of their profession, while 57,1% were found to make no assessment of individuals’ sexual health, and 69,3% were found to feel uncomfortable while discussing sexual issues. 69,3% of the students deemed themselves partly sufficient as to their knowledge on sexuality, and 59,1% thought that the training on the assessment of sexual education they received during their vocational education was not sufficient. Students that do not inform individuals under their care regarding sexuality-related issues, regard the assessment of sexual health as a requirement of holistic care, and those that feel uncomfortable while discussing sexuality-related issues received higher SMS total mean scores (p<0,05).Conclusion: Preparation and extended use of a vocational education curriculum and its integration with clinical practices, are recommended to minimize and eliminate sexual myths and provide the students with competences for assessment of sexual health.