@Article{Tkaczyk2026,
journal="Problemy Pielęgniarstwa / Nursing Problems",
issn="1233-9989",
year="2026",
title="Barriers to discussing sexuality in nursing practice: a systematic review",
abstract="         Erectile dysfunction is a    common male sexual health problem, yet sexual issues are rarely addressed in nursing practice. Communication barriers hinder the identification of problems and provision of adequate care.           The aim of the study was to systematically review the literature on barriers to discussing sexuality in nursing practice, using patients with erectile dysfunction as an example.        A systematic review of studies published between 2020 and 2026 was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.        Ten studies were included. Barriers were identified at the patient level (embarrassment, lack of initiative), the nurse level (knowledge deficits, discomfort, attitudes), and the organizational level (lack of time, privacy, protocols). Training and communication models, particularly PLISSIT, were associated with increased nurses’ readiness to address sexual health.        Communication barriers are multidimensional. Integrating sexual health into routine care and strengthening nurses’ competencies and organizational support are essential to improve care for patients with erectile dysfunction.   ",
author="Tkaczyk, Filip M.
and Siudak, Zbigniew",
doi="10.5114/ppiel.2026.165431",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.5114/ppiel.2026.165431"
}