A patient who has labs drawn for an insurance screening has a positive Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test. Which action should the nurse take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Once antibody testing is positive for syphilis, the antibodies remain present for an indefinite period of time even after successful treatment, so the nurse should inquire about previous treatment before doing other assessments or testing. Culture, FAT-ABS testing, and assessment for symptoms may be appropriate, based on whether the patient has been previously treated for syphilis.

A Patient Who Has Labs Drawn for an Insurance Screening