3 Lymphoma Nursing Care Plans

Sexual Dysfunction

Lymphoma and its treatments can lead to changes in the body’s structure and function, such as damage to nerves and blood vessels, and hormonal imbalances. These changes can affect sexual function and lead to sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty achieving orgasm.

Nursing Diagnosis

• Sexual Dysfunction

May be related to

• Altered body structure or function (drugs, surgery, disease process, radiation [loss of sexual desire, disruption of sexual response pattern])

Possibly evidenced by

• Verbalization of problem
• An actual or perceived limitation imposed by disease and/or therapy
• Alteration in relationship with SO

Desired Outcomes

• The patient will verbalize understanding of individual reasons for sexual problems.
• The patient will identify stressors in lifestyle that may contribute to the dysfunction.
• The patient will discuss concerns about body image, sex role, and desirability as a sexual partner with a partner/SO.

Nursing Assessment and Rationales

1. Identify preexisting and current stress factors that may be affecting the relationship.
The patient may be concerned about other issues, such as job, financial, and illness-related problems.

2. Determine specific pathophysiology, illness, surgery or trauma involved and impact on (perception of) the individual.
A patient’s perception of the individual effects of this illness is crucial to planning interventions that will be appropriate for those affected (patient and family).

Nursing Interventions and Rationales

1. Let the patient describe the problem in their own words.
Provides a more accurate picture of patient experience with which to develop a plan of care.

2. Know the importance of sex to the individual, partner, and patient’s motivation for change.
Because lymphomas often affect the relatively young who are in their productive years, these people may be affected more by these problems and may be less knowledgeable about the possibilities of change.

3. Weigh knowledge of the patient and SO regarding sexual function and effects of current situation and condition.
Helps analyze areas of concern, misconception, and actual problems related to therapy side effects.

4. Assist with the treatment of the underlying condition.
As illness is treated and the patient can see improvement, hope is restored and the patient can begin to look to the future.

5. Provide factual information.
Promotes trust in caregivers.

6. Encourage and accept expressions of concern, anger, grief, and fear.
Helps the patient identify feelings and begin to deal with them.

7. Encourage the patient to share thoughts and concerns with the partner and to clarify values and the impact of the condition on the relationship.
Helps couples begin to deal with issues that can strengthen or weaken relationships.

8. Refer to appropriate community resources and support groups (CanSurmount).
Provides information about resources that are available to help with individual needs. Meeting with others who are dealing with the effects of devastating illness can help patients and families.

9. Provide written material and bibliotherapy Internet sites, and other resources appropriate to age and situation.
Reinforces information the patient has received.

10. Refer to a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist and professional sexual therapist as indicated.
May need additional in-depth assistance to resolve existing problems.