After a vaginal examination, the nurse suspects the client has a gonorrheal infection. Based on this suspicion, which is the priority action by the nurse?

Question

1. Counsel regarding safe sex practices.
2. Obtain history of sexual contacts.
3. Obtain a culture.
4. Document the findings.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
The priority for the nurse in this situation is to obtain a culture of any discharge present so a definitive diagnosis can be made. The interaction between the nurse and client will include a discussion about safe sex practices. The discussion, however, of safe sexual practices is not a priority as the client has presented with a potential sexually transmitted infection. A listing of sexual contacts may be indicated in the event the disease is positively identified. At this time this step is premature pending the outcome of the diagnostic tests. The nurse will need to document the findings. It is most important to obtain the culture.