Infections of the Female Reproductive Tract
Terminal Learning Objective:
Given a scenario of a patient with an infection of the female reproductive system
Enabling Learning Objectives: A. Describe the etiology/ pathophysiology, assessment, diagnosis, medical and nursing management of infections of the female reproductive system
Vaginitis:
Vaginitis:
Definition – inflammation of the vagina Causes: – E. coli – Staphylococcal and streptococcal organisms – T. vaginalis – Candida albicans (fungus) – Gardnerella
Vaginitis:
Commonly occurs during pregnancy After antibiotic therapy Diabetes Vaginitis may persist for years
Vaginitis: Other factors
– – – – – –
Presence of glucose or glycogen in the urine Vaginal pH Hormonal changes Long term use of birth control pills Use of systemic antibiotics Compromised immunity
Vaginitis:
Types of Vaginitis: – Bacterial Vaginosis – Atrophic (Senile) Vaginitis
Vaginitis:
Signs and symptoms – Yellow, white, or grayish white exudate. – Perineal pruritis – discomfort in lower abdominal region – Dysuria – Painful intercourse
Vaginitis:
Diagnosis – – –
Visual exam Culture Bimanual exam
Treatment – Vaginal suppositories, ointments, and creams – Douching frequently prescribed
Vaginitis:
Vaginitis:
Nursing Interventions – Seek Tx with s/s of infection – Medications – Hygiene – Tx sexual partners – Refrain or us condom
Cervicitis
Cervicitis Definition – inflammation or infection of the cervix One of the most common diseases Causes
– – – –
Vaginal infections or STDs Lacerations r/t childbirth or abortions Frequent douching Forgotten tampon
Cervicitis
Signs and symptoms – – – –
Leukorrhea Menstrual irregularities Dyspareunia Backaches
Cervicitis
Treatment – – – –
Specific to causative organism Suppositories, ointments, and creams Personal hygiene & warm tub baths Electrocautery or conization (if severe)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Definition: Any acute, subacute, recurrent, or chronic infection of the cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterus that has extended to the connective tissues lying between the broad ligaments
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Infection enters the pelvic organs through – – –
Vagina, peritoneum Lymph glands Blood stream
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Signs and symptoms – Foul smelling vaginal discharge – Backache – Pelvic, abdominal pain – Fever, chills, malaise – Nausea, vomiting – Menorrhagia – Dysmenorrhea – Dyspareunia
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Diagnosis – – – – –
Gram’s stains of secretions Culture and sensitivity Laparoscopy Ultrasound Leukocyte count, ESR
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Treatment modalities – – – –
Bedrest Systemic antibiotics Sitz baths to relieve pain Douches and sexual intercourse avoided
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Nursing Interventions – – – – –
Monitor Avoid dehydration Palliative measures Patient support Discharge planning
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Definition – acute bacterial infection Menstruating and using tampons Cause – Bacterium Staphylococcus aureus May be seen in men and in nonmenstruating women
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Signs and symptoms – Flu-like signs and symptoms first 24 hours – Between days 2-4 of menses: » High fever, chills » Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea » Myalgia » Hypotension » Septic shock » Hyperemia
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Red, macular palmar or diffuse rash » Decreased urine output. » Increased BUN » Disorientation. » Pulmonary edema »
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Diagnosis – – –
Vaginal smear Elevated BUN, creatinine, bilirubin levels ALT, AST, CPK depression
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Treatment modalities – – – – – –
IV antibiotics Analgesics IV fluids Antiemetics. Oxygen Adrenergic drug
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Nursing Interventions – – –
Bedrest Monitor Patient teaching
CHECK ON LEARNING:
Why is vaginitis common in women with diabetes?
ANSWER
Because of the increase of glucose in the urine. The glucose can breed the monilial fungus due to the high carbohydrate content of glucose.
QUESTIONS