Chlamydia Infection: Nursing Roles in Prevention, Education, and Treatment Compliance-An Updated Review

Abstract

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally, contributing to significant health risks, particularly in women, such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and ectopic pregnancy. The infection can also lead to ocular infections like trachoma, a leading cause of blindness. Asymptomatic cases facilitate silent transmission, making early diagnosis and prevention essential.

Aim: This review explores the role of nursing in preventing, educating, and ensuring treatment compliance in patients with chlamydia infections, emphasizing the impact of nursing interventions on managing this widespread STI.

Methods: A comprehensive review of the current literature, including epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic methods, treatment protocols, and nursing practices, was conducted. The review synthesizes findings from recent studies on chlamydia infection management and nursing responsibilities.

Results: Nurses play a critical role in preventing chlamydia transmission through public health education and promoting safe sexual practices. Additionally, they contribute to the diagnosis process by facilitating screenings and supporting patient treatment compliance, particularly in high-risk populations such as sexually active young adults. Early detection through nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) and timely interventions with antibiotics like azithromycin or doxycycline significantly reduce complications and transmission rates. However, challenges in ensuring treatment adherence remain, especially in patients with co-infections.

Conclusion: Nurses have a pivotal role in the prevention, education, and management of chlamydia infections. Their involvement in patient education, screening, and adherence support is essential in curbing the spread of this STI. Strengthening nursing practices through ongoing education and proactive health interventions is necessary to reduce the burden of chlamydia-related complications.