Question

During a pelvic examination of a 24-year-old woman, the nurse suspects a vaginal infection because of the presence of a white curdlike vaginal discharge. What other finding supports a fungal vaginal infection?

Answer 1

Supporting findings for a fungal vaginal infection include symptoms of pruritus (itching) and discomfort, along with laboratory confirmation via a direct vaginal smear showing an overgrowth of yeast cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a pelvic examination, if a 24-year-old woman exhibits a white curdlike vaginal discharge, another finding that supports a diagnosis of a fungal vaginal infection is the presence of itching and discomfort.

This type of infection, commonly Candida albicans or a yeast infection, is indicated by symptoms such as pruritus (itching), inflammation, and a thick, often odorless discharge. A microscope slide of a direct vaginal smear and a culture of the discharge can confirm the diagnosis by showing an overgrowth of yeast cells. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.