NURS4000: Community Case: STIs and Older Adults
NURS4000: Community Case: STIs and Older Adults
The state health department reports that there has been a dramatic increase in sexually
transmitted infections (STIs), especially gonorrhea and HIV, in select populations within the
state. A population of particular concern with a notably increased incidence of STIs is the Sunny
Side Retirement Community, which had 15 newly diagnosed cases last month. Sunny Side offers
numerous amenities and recreation activities for more affluent retirees who chose to retire in a
warmer climate NURS4000: Community Case: STIs and Older Adults. Renee, an advanced registered nurse practitioner, is employed in the federally
qualified health center, and provides primary care services to residents. Within the past few
weeks, several women have sought care for urgency, frequency, and sometimes discomfort with
urination along with vaginal and perineal itching and drainage. Today, Luanne Barton arrives in
the office with similar symptoms.
Questions for students:
1. What is your initial diagnosis based on the symptoms reported by Luanne Barton?
a. The initial diagnosis based on reported symptoms is an STI but cannot be
confirmed without a pelvic examination and laboratory tests. The STI sounds is
most similar to trichomoniasis NURS4000: Community Case: STIs and Older Adults. However, it could be chlamydia, gonorrhea, or
even syphilis. All of which are easily treated and cured if diagnosed early.
2. How can the nurse initiate a conversation with Luanne regarding her sexuality?
a. The nurse can complete her medical history by asking about her symptoms,
history of symptoms, and focus on her past and present sexual partners. Luanne
revealed she was sexually active during her forty-year marriage, and until her
husband passed away several years ago. Next, she admitted to being in a new
sexually active relationship for the past six weeks. Therefore, this is a warning
sign to take note of when considering these STI symptoms.
3. Describe risk factors among older individuals for being exposed to an STI.
a. The Web of Causation implies a new set of social dynamics and access to intimate
relationships, especially when living in a retirement community. The availability
of a community the same age and values, mixed with a possible lack of
knowledge about risk exposure, primary prevention, and secondary prevention
screening is a perfect storm to breed human exposure to specific STI organisms NURS4000: Community Case: STIs and Older Adults
