Choice A rationale:

The nurse correctly states that using condoms consistently during sexual intercourse can help prevent chlamydia.

Chlamydia is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, and barrier methods like condoms can reduce the risk of transmission.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer.

Having a weakened immune system is indeed a risk factor for chlamydia.

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are more susceptible to various infections, including chlamydia.

Choice C rationale:

The nurse's statement about engaging in unprotected anal sex as a risk factor for chlamydia is accurate.

Chlamydia can be transmitted through various types of sexual intercourse, including anal sex, if a person is infected and precautions like condom use are not taken.

Choice D rationale:

While it is true that chlamydia can be transmitted from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy, this is not typically considered a common risk factor for chlamydia.

The primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

Syphilis is not primarily transmitted through sharing needles.

While syphilis can be transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, it is primarily spread through sexual contact or from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer.

Direct contact with syphilis sores, known as chancres, can indeed transmit the infection.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection, and contact with syphilis sores during sexual activity is a common mode of transmission.

Choice C rationale:

Syphilis is not mainly spread through respiratory droplets in the air.

It is not an airborne infection, and respiratory transmission is not a common mode of transmission for syphilis.

Choice D rationale:

Using barrier methods like condoms can reduce the risk of syphilis transmission but does not completely prevent it.

Condoms are effective in reducing the risk of many STIs, including syphilis, but they are not 100% foolproof.

Choice A rationale:

Using barrier methods like condoms consistently and correctly during sexual intercourse is an effective prevention strategy for STIs.

Condoms create a barrier that can prevent the exchange of bodily fluids, reducing the risk of infection.

Choice B rationale:

Having a monogamous sexual relationship with a partner who is known to be free of STIs is a preventive measure.

Monogamy with an uninfected partner can reduce the risk of exposure to STIs, but it is essential to ensure both partners are free of STIs through testing.

Choice C rationale:

Engaging in sexual activity without any form of contraception to prevent STIs is not a recommended strategy.

This increases the risk of STI transmission.

The correct approach is to use barrier methods like condoms or other forms of contraception to reduce the risk.

Choice D rationale:

Getting regular STI screenings if you have multiple sexual partners is a crucial preventive measure.

It allows for early detection and treatment of STIs, reducing their spread.

Regular screenings are especially important for individuals with multiple sexual partners or those at higher risk of STIs.

Choice E rationale:

Sharing needles or drug paraphernalia with others is a high-risk behavior that can lead to the transmission of bloodborne infections, including HIV and hepatitis C.

It is not a strategy to prevent STIs; instead, it increases the risk of infection.

Sharing needles should always be avoided.

Herpes.

Choice A rationale:

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

It typically presents with symptoms such as urethral discharge and dysuria in males and can lead to complications, but it does not typically cause painful blisters and ulcers in the genital area.

Therefore, it is not the most likely responsible STI for these symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Syphilis is another STI caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

It has a different clinical presentation, including primary and secondary stages with distinctive lesions and symptoms.

While it can cause genital ulcers, they are usually painless and different from the painful blisters and ulcers described in the question.

Therefore, syphilis is not the most likely responsible STI for these symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and can lead to various complications, but it typically does not present with painful blisters and ulcers in the genital area.

Chlamydia is more commonly associated with symptoms such as urethral discharge and pelvic inflammatory disease in females.

Therefore, it is not the most likely responsible STI for these symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and commonly presents with painful blisters and ulcers in the genital area.

The virus can establish latency in nerve cells and periodically reactivate, leading to recurrent outbreaks of painful lesions.

This description aligns with the symptoms mentioned in the question, making herpes the most likely responsible STI.

"Neisseria gonorrhoeae enters the body through sexual contact and binds to host cells."

Choice A rationale:

Gonorrhea primarily infects mucous membranes, such as those found in the genital and rectal areas.

It does not primarily infect the skin and does not cause superficial lesions.

Therefore, choice A is not an accurate description of the infection process of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Choice B rationale:

While gonorrhea can spread to other parts of the body in rare cases, the primary mode of transmission is through sexual contact with an infected individual.

It is not primarily spread through the lymphatic system, making choice B an inaccurate description of the infection process.

Choice C rationale:

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is indeed transmitted through sexual contact and enters the body through mucous membranes, where it binds to host cells.

This accurate description aligns with the typical mode of transmission and pathogenesis of gonorrhea.

Choice D rationale:

Gonorrhea does not primarily cause infection by releasing toxins into the bloodstream.

Instead, it infects mucous membranes and causes inflammation and tissue damage through direct invasion by the bacterium.

Choice D does not accurately describe the infection process of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

The correct answer is Choice B, gonorrhea.

Choice A rationale: HIV is not the most likely cause of these symptoms. HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS. HIV can be transmitted through sexual contact, but it does not usually cause urethral discharge, dysuria, or testicular pain. HIV may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, rash, or swollen glands in the early stages of infection, but these are not specific to HIV and may not appear at all. HIV can also cause opportunistic infections and cancers that affect different parts of the body, but these usually occur in the later stages of the disease when the immune system is severely compromised. Therefore, HIV is not the best answer for this question12

Choice B rationale: Gonorrhea is the most likely cause of these symptoms. Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, anus, throat, or eyes. Gonorrhea can be transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Gonorrhea can cause urethral discharge, dysuria, and testicular pain in men. The urethral discharge may be yellow, green, or white, and may have a foul smell. The dysuria may be burning or painful. The testicular pain may be accompanied by swelling or tenderness of the scrotum. Gonorrhea can also cause complications such as epididymitis, prostatitis, urethral stricture, or infertility if left untreated. Gonorrhea can be diagnosed by testing a urine sample or a swab from the affected site. Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but some strains of gonorrhea are resistant to certain drugs, so it is important to follow the prescribed regimen and avoid sexual contact until cured. Therefore, gonorrhea is the best answer for this question34

Choice C rationale: Syphilis is not the most likely cause of these symptoms. Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can affect the genitals, anus, mouth, skin, or internal organs. Syphilis can be transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex, or through contact with a syphilis sore. Syphilis has four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. In the primary stage, syphilis causes a painless ulcer or chancre at the site of infection, which may be on the penis, scrotum, anus, or mouth. The chancre usually heals within 3 to 6 weeks, but the infection remains in the body. In the secondary stage, syphilis causes a rash that may cover the whole body, including the palms and soles, and may be accompanied by fever, headache, sore throat, swollen glands, or hair loss. The rash and other symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks or months, but the infection remains in the body. In the latent stage, syphilis has no symptoms, but can be detected by a blood test. The latent stage can last for years or decades, and the infection can still be transmitted to others. In the tertiary stage, syphilis causes serious damage to the heart, brain, nerves, bones, joints, or other organs, which can lead to death. Syphilis can be diagnosed by testing a blood sample or a sample from a syphilis sore. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, but the damage caused by the infection may not be reversible. Therefore, syphilis is not the best answer for this question.

Choice D rationale: Genital herpes is not the most likely cause of these symptoms. Genital herpes is a viral infection that can affect the genitals, anus, or mouth. Genital herpes can be transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex, or through contact with a herpes sore or blister. Genital herpes can cause painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals, anus, or mouth, which may break open and form scabs. Genital herpes can also cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, or swollen glands in the first outbreak, which usually occurs within 2 to 12 days after exposure. Genital herpes can recur periodically, usually triggered by stress, illness, or other factors. Genital herpes can be diagnosed by testing a sample from a herpes sore or blister, or by testing a blood sample. Genital herpes cannot be cured, but antiviral medications can reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to others. Therefore, genital herpes is not the best answer for this question.

Choice A rationale:

"I've noticed increased vaginal discharge recently." This statement does suggest a change in vaginal discharge, which can be a symptom of some STIs.

However, it is not specific enough to confirm the suspicion of an STI, as increased vaginal discharge can also occur due to non-STI related causes such as hormonal changes, yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis.

Choice B rationale:

"I've had a painless sore at the site of infection." A painless sore at the site of infection is a classic symptom of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.

However, this choice does not provide information about vaginal discharge or painful blisters, which are more characteristic of other STIs like herpes.

Therefore, this statement alone does not support the suspicion of an STI in this particular case.

Choice C rationale:

"I have periodic reactivation of painful blisters in my genital area." This statement strongly supports the suspicion of an STI, specifically herpes.

Herpes is known for causing painful blisters that can periodically reactivate in the genital area.

This symptom is highly indicative of a sexually transmitted infection.

Choice D rationale:

"I've developed a rash and flu-like symptoms." While a rash and flu-like symptoms can be associated with some STIs, such as early HIV infection, these symptoms are non-specific and can occur due to various other illnesses as well.

Without more specific information related to genital symptoms or exposures, this statement alone does not strongly support the suspicion of an STI.

Choice A rationale:

Ask about the number of sexual partners.

Assessing the number of sexual partners is an important nursing assessment related to STIs.

A higher number of sexual partners increases the risk of exposure to STIs.

Understanding this information allows the nurse to provide appropriate education on safe sex practices and the importance of regular STI screenings.

Choice B rationale:

Inquire about condom use during sexual activity.

Inquiring about condom use is crucial when discussing STIs because consistent and correct condom use can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Understanding a client's condom use practices provides insight into their level of protection against STIs and can guide the nurse in providing education on safer sex practices.

Choice D rationale:

Perform a physical examination of the genital area.

A physical examination of the genital area is essential for assessing and diagnosing STIs.

Some STIs may present with visible symptoms or lesions in the genital area, and a physical examination helps in identifying these signs.

It also allows for the assessment of any painless sores or unusual skin changes that may indicate an STI.

Choice E rationale:

Assess for swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can be an indicator of certain STIs, particularly syphilis.

Lymphadenopathy is one of the clinical manifestations of syphilis, and assessing for swollen lymph nodes is part of a comprehensive STI assessment.

It can help identify possible systemic involvement of the infection.

Choice C rationale:

Check for the presence of a painless sore at the site of infection.

While the presence of a painless sore is important in diagnosing syphilis, this choice alone is not sufficient as a nursing assessment.

A comprehensive assessment should include inquiries about sexual partners, condom use, and physical examinations, as STIs can manifest in various ways beyond just painless sores.

Choice A rationale:

Initial outbreak.

An initial outbreak of an STI typically presents with the acute symptoms of the infection.

However, in this case, the client is described as having a painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection.

This symptom is more characteristic of syphilis, which progresses through distinct stages, and the initial outbreak of syphilis often includes the appearance of a painless sore.

Choice B rationale:

Secondary stage.

The secondary stage of syphilis follows the primary stage (characterized by the chancre) and is characterized by a wider range of symptoms, including skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

The presence of a painless sore, along with the description of secondary symptoms, suggests that the client is likely experiencing the secondary stage of syphilis.

Choice C rationale:

Latent stage.

The latent stage of syphilis is typically asymptomatic, with no visible signs or symptoms.

This stage follows the secondary stage, and it can last for years before progressing to tertiary syphilis.

Since the client has a painless sore and other symptoms, it is unlikely that they are in the latent stage.

Choice D rationale:

Tertiary stage.

The tertiary stage of syphilis occurs after a long period of latent infection and can involve severe organ damage, including the heart and nervous system.

Symptoms at this stage are not limited to a painless sore, and the presentation is more complex than what is described for this client.

Therefore, the client is not likely experiencing the tertiary stage of syphilis.

Choice A rationale:

Antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or cefixime.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viral infections.

Genital blisters or ulcers are commonly associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, which is a viral infection.

Therefore, antibiotics like ceftriaxone or cefixime would not be effective in treating this symptom.

Choice B rationale:

Antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline.

Similar to Choice A, these antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, and they would not be effective against viral infections like genital herpes.

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which requires antiviral medications for treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir.

This is the correct choice.

Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir are commonly used to treat symptoms of genital herpes, including painful blisters or ulcers.

These medications work by inhibiting the replication of the herpes virus, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Penicillin G for antibiotic therapy.

Penicillin G is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, particularly syphilis.

However, it is not effective against viral infections like genital herpes.

Therefore, it is not the appropriate choice for treating the symptoms described in the question.

Choice A rationale:

"Using condoms inconsistently is acceptable as long as you're in a monogamous relationship." This statement is incorrect.

Inconsistent condom use, even in a monogamous relationship, can still lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

It is important to emphasize consistent condom use as part of safe sex practices to reduce the risk of STIs.

Choice B rationale:

"Regular STI screening is unnecessary if you have no symptoms." This statement is also incorrect.

Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning individuals may carry and transmit the infection without experiencing symptoms.

Regular STI screening is essential for early detection and treatment, even in the absence of symptoms, to prevent the spread of infections and their potential complications.

Choice C rationale:

"Practicing safe sex involves consistent condom use." This is the correct choice.

Practicing safe sex does indeed involve consistent condom use, regardless of one's relationship status.

Condoms act as a barrier to prevent the transmission of STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.

Consistency in condom use is a crucial aspect of STI prevention.

Choice D rationale:

"STIs are only a concern for people with multiple sexual partners." This statement is incorrect and stigmatizing.

STIs can affect anyone, regardless of the number of sexual partners they have had.

It's essential to promote awareness that STIs can be transmitted through sexual contact, and preventive measures like condom use and regular screening should be encouraged for all sexually active individuals.

Choice A rationale:

"You should be ashamed of yourself for contracting an STI." This response is inappropriate and stigmatizing.

It is essential for healthcare professionals to provide support and empathy to individuals diagnosed with STIs rather than making them feel ashamed or guilty.

Such responses can discourage individuals from seeking care and support.

Choice B rationale:

"I can't provide emotional support; you should talk to someone else." This response is dismissive and unhelpful.

Nurses and healthcare providers should be prepared to offer emotional support to clients dealing with STI diagnoses.

Referring them to another source of support without offering any assistance is not in line with providing comprehensive care.

Choice C rationale:

"It's normal to feel upset, and I'm here to support you through this." This is the correct choice.

The response acknowledges the client's emotional distress, normalizes their feelings, and offers support.

Providing emotional support is an essential aspect of nursing care, especially when clients are dealing with the emotional impact of an STI diagnosis.

Choice D rationale:

"You shouldn't worry; STIs are not a big deal." This response is inaccurate and dismissive of the client's concerns.

While some STIs may have milder symptoms and are treatable, others can lead to severe health complications if left untreated.

It is crucial to take STIs seriously and provide clients with accurate information and support.

Choice A rationale:

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a well-known complication of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly gonorrhea and chlamydia.

PID can lead to serious health issues, including chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

It is essential for healthcare professionals to be aware of this complication when discussing STIs.

Choice B rationale:

Rheumatoid arthritis is not a complication of STIs.

It is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints.

There is no direct link between STIs and the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

Choice C rationale:

Neonatal herpes is a complication of genital herpes when it is transmitted from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth.

While it is related to an STI, it is not a complication discussed in the context of adult STIs, which is the focus of the question.

Choice D rationale:

Cardiovascular syphilis is a late-stage complication of syphilis but is not typically discussed as a complication of other STIs.

It involves damage to the cardiovascular system, such as the aorta.

This choice is not relevant to the general discussion of STI complications.

Choice E rationale:

Reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter's syndrome, is an inflammatory condition that can develop after certain infections, including some STIs like chlamydia.

However, it is not a commonly discussed complication of STIs compared to PID, which is a more significant concern.

Choice A rationale:

Infertility is a potential complication of some STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, but it is not the highest priority when educating a client diagnosed with syphilis.

Syphilis can lead to more immediate and life-threatening complications.

Choice B rationale:

Paralysis is not a common complication of syphilis.

Syphilis primarily affects various body systems, including the cardiovascular and nervous systems, but it does not typically lead to paralysis.

Choice C rationale:

Aortic aneurysms are a significant concern in clients with syphilis, especially in its later stages (tertiary syphilis).

Syphilis can cause damage to the aorta, leading to the development of aneurysms.

These aneurysms can be life-threatening if they rupture, making them a high-priority complication to educate the client about.

Choice D rationale:

Cognitive impairment can occur in late-stage syphilis, known as neurosyphilis, but it is not the highest priority complication to address initially.

Aortic aneurysms are more immediate and potentially life-threatening, so they should be prioritized in client education.

Choice A rationale:

"Using condoms inconsistently is acceptable in a long-term relationship" is an incorrect statement.

Consistent condom use is essential in preventing the transmission of STIs, regardless of the duration of the relationship.

Inconsistent condom use can increase the risk of infection.

Choice B rationale:

"Regular STI screening is unnecessary unless you experience symptoms" is an incorrect statement.

Regular STI screening is essential for early detection and treatment, even in the absence of symptoms.

Many STIs can be asymptomatic, and delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to complications and further transmission.

Choice C rationale:

"Practicing safe sex involves consistent condom use" is the correct statement.

Condoms are an effective barrier method for preventing STIs when used consistently and correctly.

Emphasizing this message promotes safe sexual practices.

Choice D rationale:

"STIs only affect individuals with multiple sexual partners" is an incorrect statement.

STIs can affect anyone who engages in sexual activity, regardless of the number of sexual partners.

It is essential to educate the audience that anyone who is sexually active can be at risk of STIs, and preventive measures like condom use and regular screening are important for all sexually active individuals.