Talking About Sexuality in the Context of Rehabilitation Following Traumatic Brain Injury: An Integrative Review of Operational Aspects.

An integrative review of the literature reporting operational aspects (how, when, who, with what) of rehabilitation professionals' discussion of sexuality with individuals with mild to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) was conducted. Searches were carried out in seven databases. Records published from 2000 to 2017 were screened and selected (n = 504). The methodological quality of empirical studies was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Seventeen full-text articles, book chapters, books, and essays were included and analysed in this integrative review. Prerequisites for discussing sexuality were identified. The PLISSIT model's usefulness in getting professionals to talk about sexuality was highlighted by nine sources (52.9%). An interdisciplinary team approach, with different aspects of sexuality covered by specific professions, was principally endorsed. Five sources (29.4%) reported that the best timing to initiate a discussion about sexuality would be during early rehabilitation. Nine sources (52.9%) supported the provision of written materials or other supporting resources, such as websites and videos. To integrate sexuality as a component of TBI rehabilitation, professionals need to be aware of their role, the information and education that should be provided, the appropriate timing, the tools that might be helpful, and the support from their organizations. There is a need for more intervention studies to assess the efficacy, alternating or combining different operational aspects identified in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]