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Nursing Guide to Trichomoniasis: Nursing Diagnosis, Interventions, & Care Plans

Updated On 4 Minute Read

Etiology and Epidemiology 

Trichomoniasis Definition

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) which is acquired by direct sexual contact. It is the most common STD in the U.S., with more than 2 million reported cases in 2018 (CDC, 2021). The disease is caused by a parasite, a motile organism with a size comparable to a white blood cell. It has an incubation period of 5 to 28 days before symptoms appear. 

In men, symptoms of trichomoniasis include (CDC, 2021): 

  • Burning after ejaculation or urination 
  • Discharge from the penis 
  • Irritation or itching inside the penis 

In women, trichomoniasis symptoms include (CDC, 2021): 

  • Discomfort during sex 
  • Genital burning, itching, and soreness 
  • Discomfort with urination 
  • Vaginal odor or discharge (gray or yellow-green) 

Trichomoniasis increases the risk of acquiring and spreading other sexually transmitted diseases (MedlinePlus, 2021). In pregnant women, it can cause the following complications (Schwebke & Burgess, 2004): 

  • Low birth weight 
  • Premature rupture of membranes 
  • Preterm delivery 
  • Transmission to newborn 

Abstinence is the key in preventing trichomoniasis. If sexually active, individuals can reduce the risk of trichomoniasis by correctly using latex condoms and being in a monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for STDs. 

Trichomoniasis ICD-10 Code (unspecified): A59.9

Trichomoniasis Diagnosis 

To diagnose trichomoniasis in men, perform the following tests: 

  • Culture of urine 
  • Urethral swab 

In women, trichomoniasis can be diagnosed through the following tests: 

  • Dipstick tests, or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) 
  • Microscopic examination of vaginal secretions 

Trichomoniasis Management 

Trichomoniasis can be managed through oral metronidazole (Flagyl®) or tinidazole (Tindamax®). All sexual partners must also be treated. 

Trichomoniasis Nursing Care Plan

Nursing Considerations 

Use the nursing process to develop a plan of care for individuals. The nursing assessment (with common findings listed), diagnosis, interventions, expected outcomes, and education for individuals with trichomoniasis are listed below. 

Assessment 

History (CDC, 2021) 

  • Discomfort during sex 
  • Genital burning, itching, and soreness 
  • Discomfort with urination 
  • Vaginal odor or discharge (gray or yellow-green) 
  • Discharge from the penis 

Physical Examination 

  • Abnormal discharge from the vagina 
  • Discharge from the penis 
  • Vaginal odor 

Nursing Diagnosis/Risk For 

  • Anxiety 
  • Disturbed body image 
  • Disturbed sexual pattern 
  • Impaired skin integrity 
  • Risk for infection 
  • Risk for injury 

Trichomoniasis Interventions 

  • Administer medications, as ordered. 
  • Encourage patient to express feelings and communicate. 
  • Explain the diagnosis, treatment, and side effects. 
  • Give patient emotional support. 
  • Follow infection and safety precautions. 
  • Insert and maintain IV, per protocol and order. 
  • Maintain calm environment. 
  • Monitor the following: 
    • Adverse reactions or complications 
    • Lab results 
    • Treatment response 
    • Vital signs 

Expected Outcomes 

  • Decrease anxiety
  • Maintain normal image 
  • Maintain normal skin integrity 
  • Prevent injury and infection 

Individual/Caregiver Education 

  • Know diagnosis and treatment plan. 
  • Know medications and potential side effects. 
  • Resume normal activity, as tolerated. 
  • Maintain a well-balanced diet, as tolerated. 
  • Avoid all sexual contact until individual and partner(s) finish full treatment. 
  • Individuals should follow safe sex practices. 
  • Avoid pregnancy until treatment is completed and lab results return to normal. 
  • Avoid illicit drugs and high-risk sexual behaviors. 
  • Healthcare workers should use universal precautions. 
  • IV drug users should never share needles and should only use clean needles. 
  • Call if any complications or adverse effects arise. 
  • Follow up with provider, as directed. 

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Additional Information

Content Release Date

4/1/2022

Content Expiration

12/31/2028

Course Contributor 

The content for this course was created by Kelly LaMonica, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM. 

Kelly LaMonica received her Associate’s Degree and RN from Muhlenberg School of Nursing in New Jersey 20 years ago. She began her career in Labor and Delivery 16 years ago. She earned her BSN and MSN from the University of Phoenix and her DNP from Grand Canyon University. She is certified in Inpatient Obstetrics (C-OB) and Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM). She is a neonatal resuscitation (NRP) Instructor. She has been a clinical leader for the past 11 years at Penn Medicine Princeton. She is also a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers University and Chamberlain School of Nursing. 

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Kelly LaMonica, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM

Kelly LaMonica received her Associate’s Degree and RN from Muhlenberg School of Nursing in New Jersey 20 years ago. She began her career in Labor and Delivery 16 years ago. She earned her BSN and MSN from the University of Phoenix and her DNP from Grand Canyon University. She is certified in Inpatient Obstetrics (C-OB) and Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM). She is a neonatal resuscitation (NRP) Instructor. She has been a clinical leader for the past 11 years at Penn Medicine Princeton. She is also a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers University and Chamberlain School of Nursing.