A nurse in an outpatient clinic is interviewing a 72-year-old client who presents with dysuria and genital lesions. The client recently moved into an active senior living community and reports having multiple new sexual partners. The client states, "I don't use any protection because pregnancy is no longer a concern at my age." Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
- AWhy have you chosen to engage in unprotected intercourse with multiple new partners?
- BAt this stage, participating in routine STI screenings is actually more effective than using barrier methods.
- While pregnancy is not a risk, barrier methods remain essential to protect against sexually transmitted infections.Answer
- DI will arrange a cognitive assessment for you, as this pattern of behavior is abnormal for your age group.
Answer
The nurse should directly address the client's misconception by providing factual information about the ongoing risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) regardless of age, while avoiding judgmental language.
The correct answer provides factual, non-judgmental education that directly addresses the client's specific knowledge deficit. Rates of STIs in older adults are rising, and nurses must actively advocate for primary prevention (such as barrier methods) regardless of a client's reproductive capacity.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Harm Reduction and Primary Prevention in Older Adults
Estimated Time:1m 15s