A nurse is caring for a patient with suspected genital herpes. Which diagnostic method should the nurse anticipate for confirmation?

Choice A rationale:

Blood culture is not the preferred diagnostic method for confirming genital herpes. Herpes simplex virus is best detected through methods that target viral DNA or RNA, such as NAAT.

Choice B rationale:

Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) using urine is an appropriate diagnostic method for confirming genital herpes. This test detects the genetic material of the herpes virus and is commonly used for accurate diagnosis.

Choice C rationale:

Wet mount microscopy using vaginal discharge is used to diagnose conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, but it is not the primary method for diagnosing genital herpes.

Choice D rationale:

Serologic testing using a blood sample can detect antibodies to herpes, indicating past exposure or infection. However, it may not be as accurate for confirming an active genital herpes outbreak as NAAT.

Choice A rationale:

Chronic inflammation and liver damage are not typical complications of bacterial STIs. Bacterial STIs primarily affect the reproductive and urinary systems, leading to complications like PID, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.

Choice B rationale:

Recurrent outbreaks and chronic pain are more characteristic of viral STIs, such as herpes, rather than bacterial ones. Bacterial STIs can lead to more serious complications like PID and infertility.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer. Bacterial STIs, if left untreated, can indeed lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Providing this information helps address the client's concerns accurately.

Choice D rationale:

Itching and rash are possible symptoms of some bacterial STIs, but they are not the most common complications. Complications are more related to reproductive health.