Various types of sexually transmitted diseases
The most common types of sexually transmitted diseases include HIV & AIDS, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), bacterial vaginosis and viral hepatitis. Apparently, while syphilis and gonorrhea have previously been mentioned as prevalent or common cases of STDs, there prevalence rates have significantly fallen over the years. For the currently common cases, they tend to possess common symptoms with a characteristic pattern on a weakened immune system (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 67). Such include fever, abdominal pains, and abnormal odor of the vagina, anal soreness, bleeding and itching, frequent micturation, painful micturation, unusual discharge from the vagina or the penis, inflammation along the vaginal walls or penis region as well as blisters in the mouth of the region of the mouth (Attia 1402).
For HIV & AIDS, the use of antiretroviral medications has been advanced not as a cure but as an appropriate management therapy that can facilitate healthy living even with the condition by controlling the viral load. These STDs are mainly caused by viruses and bacteria which imply that the administration of antibiotics and antiviral medications can play a key role in the management and at times the cure of the condition (Attia 1399).
What are the potential sequels from these diseases?
In many cases, these diseases impact the immune system of an individual this predisposing them to acquisition of other opportunistic illnesses such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, cold and flu as well as impacting the vital body organs and systems. On the other hand, these diseases tend to impact significantly on the sexual life of the individuals and ultimately their self-esteem. Most of these issues lead to stress and depression and therefore affecting an individual’s functional status. On the other hand, some of these illnesses are a foundation for the development of chronic illnesses and cancers such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which is significantly linked with cervical cancer (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 68).
Integrating knowledge from evidence-based practice in creating a holistic plan of care for patients with sexually transmitted diseases
In the management of patients with such illnesses, it will be important to make a holistic assessment of the economic status, the family status, roles and relationships as well as identifying any instances of drug and substance abuse for the individual. This information will be vital in determining the network from which the patients may have acquired the illness and the knowledge on prevention strategies that they may have. On the other hand, the use of drugs and substances may be an indication of the patient’s mental condition and which may require the input of a psychiatrist or social workers who can help place the patient through a rehabilitation process (Attia 1403).
Works Cited
Attia, S., M. Egger, M. Müller, M. Zwahlen, and N. Low. "Sexual transmission of HIV according to viral load and antiretroviral therapy: systematic review and meta-analysis." AIDS 23.11 (2009): 1397-1404. Web. <10.1097/qad.0b013e32832b7dca>.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2010." Annals of Emergency Medicine 59.12 (2011): 1-110. Web.
