IngentaConnect Chlamydia screening and treatment in patients undergoing evacuati...

Authors: Zenner, Nicole¹; Crawford, Robin¹

Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care, Volume 33, Number 2, April 2007 , pp. 95-98(4)

Publisher: Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare

Abstract:

Objective: To assess compliance with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Guidelines regarding screening for and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis before vaginal termination of pregnancy (VTOP) and surgical evacuation of retained products of conception (ERPC).

Methods: Case notes of women undergoing VTOP and ERPC in the authors' department were examined for evidence of the presence of C. trachomatis infection and identification of chlamydia risk factors, and for evidence of curative treatment for women with confirmed infection or prophylactic treatment for women at risk.

Results: In the VTOP group (n = 30) screening and treatment was carried out satisfactorily, aided by an assessment proforma. In the ERPC group (n = 30) there were weaknesses in the identification and treatment of patients at risk.

Conclusions: We conclude that the use of a proforma helps to achieve effective screening. Adequate risk assessment of women undergoing ERPC seems to be difficult to achieve and so universal administration of prophylactic antibiotics might be a safe and efficient option until the National Chlamydia Screening Programme is established in our area.

Keywords: AUDIT; CHLAMYDIA SCREENING; MISCARRIAGE; RCOG GUIDELINES; TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1783/147118907780254079

Affiliations: 1: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK

Chlamydia screening and treatment in patients undergoing evacuation of retained products of conception or vaginal termination of pregnancy: an audit of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists' Guidelines in practice