Perception and formation of nursing academics regarding human sexuality

Abstract

Objective: To analyze sexuality from the perspective of students of the nursing course of a public educational institution, listing their theoretical and practical training about this subject. Methods: It is a field research, qualitative and descriptive study, held from April to July 2013, with a targeted audience of the 151 students of the undergraduate nursing course in a public educational institution located in northwest of Paraná State, Brazil. Data were obtained through semi-structured questionnaire and submitted to thematic content analysis. Results: The students have reduced perceptions of sexuality, focusing on aspects of genitality, with insubstantial training in this issue during graduation. Conclusion: The incorporation of the sexuality theme in the academic context is necessary for progress towards comprehensive care, requiring training leading to appropriate and contextualized assistance.