Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) ( 15 Questions)
The nurse suspects an STI and gathers further information.
Which of the following statements from the client supports the suspicion of an STI?
"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.
"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.
"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.
"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:
"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.