In a case where a teenager is diagnosed with genital herpes, which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

In a case where a teenager is diagnosed with genital herpes, which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A. Document the visit without discussing sexual history
• B. Interview the teen in the waiting room with the parent present
• C. Interview the teen in the presence of the parent in the exam room
• D. Accompany the teenager to a private room to obtain a sexual history

Answer: (D)

Respecting adolescent confidentiality is essential when gathering sensitive information. When a teenager is diagnosed with genital herpes, obtaining an accurate sexual history in a private setting is crucial for effective counseling, risk reduction, and appropriate treatment. Interviewing the teen alone in a private room helps create a safe space where they can be honest about sexual activity, number of partners, protection use, and exposure history without fear of parental judgment or disclosure. This honest disclosure improves the quality of the history, guides appropriate education about transmission and prevention, and supports decisions about partner notification and follow-up care. In contrast, interviewing in the waiting room or with a parent present can hinder candor and compromise care. Therefore, accompanying the teenager to a private room to obtain a sexual history is the most appropriate action.

Respecting adolescent confidentiality is essential when gathering sensitive information. When a teenager is diagnosed with genital herpes, obtaining an accurate sexual history in a private setting is crucial for effective counseling, risk reduction, and appropriate treatment. Interviewing the teen alone in a private room helps create a safe space where they can be honest about sexual activity, number of partners, protection use, and exposure history without fear of parental judgment or disclosure. This honest disclosure improves the quality of the history, guides appropriate education about transmission and prevention, and supports decisions about partner notification and follow-up care. In contrast, interviewing in the waiting room or with a parent present can hinder candor and compromise care. Therefore, accompanying the teenager to a private room to obtain a sexual history is the most appropriate action.