PharmacologyLesson 1 of 2 in the course Anti-infective Drugs

Sexually Transmitted Infections: Prevention, Pathogens, and Drug Management

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common, and many cause no noticeable symptoms. This can allow infections to spread before a person knows they have one. This lesson introduces key features of STIs and the causes, manifestations, diagnosis, and complications of several bacterial infections.

The World Health Organization reports that more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day. Untreated infections can contribute to infertility, cancer, pregnancy complications, and increased risk for HIV infection. Stigma may make people reluctant to seek care, so nurses should use respectful, nonjudgmental communication that supports honest discussion and timely treatment.

All flashcards

What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
BV is a shift in vaginal flora away from dominant lactobacilli toward other organisms; it may cause discharge and a fishy odor or have no noticeable symptoms.
What does a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) detect?
A NAAT detects an organism's nucleic acid and is commonly used to identify chlamydia and gonorrhea.
What are possible consequences of untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea?
Either infection can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility; gonorrhea is also associated with increased HIV risk.
What does antiviral treatment do for herpes simplex virus (HSV)?
Antivirals can manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk, but they do not cure HSV; transmission can occur without visible lesions.
What infections and diseases can HPV vaccination help prevent?
Vaccination protects against nine HPV strains and helps prevent several related diseases, including genital warts and certain cancers.

Quiz questions

  1. What is a key effect of daily suppressive antiviral therapy for HSV?Answer: It can reduce transmission risk without eliminating viral shedding or transmission.
  2. Why is HPV vaccination ideally given before sexual activity begins?Answer: Protection is greatest before exposure to vaccine-targeted HPV strains.
  3. Which medication is identified as the treatment of choice for gonorrhea?Answer: Ceftriaxone.
  4. Which products can reduce ciprofloxacin absorption when taken near a dose?Answer: Iron- and calcium-containing products.
  5. What should clients be advised to do to reduce STI transmission while being treated?Answer: Refrain from sexual activity during treatment.

Based on Pharmacology for Nurses by Tina Barbour-Taylor, Leah Mueller (Sabato), Donna Paris, Dorie Weaver (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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