Discussion: Sexually Transmitted Infections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted infections every year in the United States (CDC, 2010b).

STIs may present serious health implications for infected patients-especially for those who are unaware of their health condition. Studies show that women are not only at greater risk of contracting these infections, but they also tend to have more severe health problems resulting from infections than men (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2009b).

As an advanced practice nurse, you must educate female patients and emphasize the importance of prevention and STI testing for all women regardless of marital status, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. For this Discussion, consider STI education strategies for the three patients in the following case studies:

Case Study 2:

A 31-year-old African American female is concerned about a white vaginal discharge. She has self-treated in the past with over-the-counter vaginal creams with some success. She has had no relief thus far for this episode.

To prepare:

· Review Chapter 21 of the Schuiling and Likis text and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention article in this week's Learning Resources.

· Review and select one of the three provided case studies. Reflect on the patient information.

· Consider a differential diagnosis for the patient in the case study you selected. Think about the most likely diagnosis for the patient.

· Think about a treatment and management plan for the patient. Be sure to consider appropriate dosages for any recommended pharmacologic and/or nonpharmacologic treatments.

· Consider strategies for educating patients on the treatment and management of the sexually transmitted infection you identified as your primary diagnosis.

Post at least 250 words APA format

1. provide an explanation of the differential diagnosis for the patient in the case study you selected.

2. Provide a minimum of three possible diagnoses, and list them from highest priority to lowest priority.

3. Explain which is the most likely diagnosis for the patient and why.

4. Then, explain a treatment and management plan for the patient, including appropriate dosages for any recommended treatments.

5. Finally, explain strategies for educating patients on the sexually transmitted infection.

The objectives that will guide our discussion this week are:

• Assess patients with sexually transmitted infections

• Evaluate differential diagnoses for sexually transmitted infections

• Analyze treatment and management plans for patients with sexually transmitted infections

• Analyze strategies for educating patients on the treatment and management of sexually transmitted infections

• Evaluate the impact of sociocultural factors on the treatment and management of sexually transmitted infections

• Understand and apply key terms, principles, and concepts related to sexually transmitted infections in patients

• Evaluate vaginal infections in patients