A nurse is educating a group of adolescents about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Which of the following statements regarding STIs is accurate? Select the correct option.

Choice A rationale:

This choice is correct because antiviral drugs like acyclovir are commonly prescribed during herpes outbreaks to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Avoiding treatment due to a penicillin allergy is not relevant to genital herpes, as antiviral drugs are used for herpes treatment, not penicillin-based antibiotics.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Informing sexual partners about a genital herpes diagnosis is crucial to prevent the spread of the infection.

Choice D rationale:

This choice is incorrect. Regular follow-up testing is not typically required for monitoring herpes progress, as the diagnosis is primarily clinical and based on symptoms.

Choice A rationale:

This choice describes viral STIs, which are caused by viruses infecting body cells. While antiviral drugs can manage these infections, they cannot be completely cured. Examples of viral STIs include HIV and genital warts.

Choice B rationale:

Protozoal STIs are indeed caused by protozoa infecting the genital tract. They can be effectively treated with antiprotozoal drugs, and if left untreated, they may lead to various symptoms such as vaginitis, cervicitis, urethritis, or prostatitis. Trichomoniasis is an example of a protozoal STI.

Choice C rationale:

This option refers to bacterial STIs, not protozoal ones. Bacterial STIs can be cured with antibiotics and may cause complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or congenital syphilis if left untreated. Examples include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.

Choice D rationale:

This describes parasitic STIs caused by mites or insects infesting the genital skin or hair. These infections can be treated with topical agents or oral drugs. Examples include pubic lice (crabs) and scabies.