Three staff members at VCH working in the areas of Sexual Medicine and Sexual Health (Dr. Stacy Elliott, Shannon Griffin RN, MN and Kate McBride RN, BSN, CRRN) have developed two courses in Sexual Health Rehabilitation in conjunction with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). These courses are introductory in human sexuality in the context of a health care practice and sexual health rehabilitation: Introduction to Sexual Health Rehabilitation Course 1 (NSPN 7740) and Introduction to Sexual Health Rehabilitation Course 2 (NSPN 7745). Course 1 will cover the interplay between physiological, psychological and social contexts of sexuality and sexual function as well as exploring the health care professional’s personal values and beliefs around sexuality. Sexual issues stemming from medical, surgical and psychiatric illnesses will be introduced, with a focus on chronic illness and disability. Course 2 builds and expands upon the topics covered in course 1.

These courses are unique in Canada and will introduce the health care provider to the complex biopsychosocial role that sexual health has in patient care and best practice standards. Both courses are three credits each and are part of the new Human Sexuality curriculum and may be used in the future towards an advanced certificate in sexual health. These courses were developed via a grant from the Rick Hansen Institute in partnership with BCIT and in conjunction with industry partners, including:

• BC Centre for Sexual Medicine and the Sexual Health Rehabilitation Service at GF Strong (Vancouver Coastal Health)
• Men’s Health Initiative of British Columbia
• University of British Columbia’s departments of Psychiatry, Gynecology and Urologic Sciences.

These courses are for any health care professionals, including:

• registered nurses
• licensed practical nurses
• doctors
• massage therapists
• midwives
• occupational therapists
• physiotherapists
• psychologists
• social workers

To register

For more information or to register for September 2014, check out the BCIT website.