The communication of personal results from genital HSV results can cause varied results and reactions from patients, and some reactions could be psychologically devastating. The biggest challenge to medical practitioners is to deliver the message without causing great psychological disturbances that could elicit negative reactions (Golanty & Edlin, 2009). Patients may be emotionally prepared, but the effect of the delivered message may over-weigh their preparedness. Patients may be unable to handle emotional issues, concerns about disclosure and risk reduction.
The delivery of information related to genital HSV requires great confidentiality and as such the delivery of information should be done in a confidential manner. The results should be delivered in a private environment and in a neutral tone. After delivering the message, it is essential to allow the patient to have some reflection time within which s/he may be able to take in the message and reflect upon it. Thereafter, the practitioner should inquire about the patient’s reaction and views with an intention of directing his emotional responses in a positive direction (Swanson, 1999).
During the delivery the practitioner should try to normalize the situation by plainly highlighting other previous cases to help the patient understand that his/her case is not unique. Emotional support and direction is also important in helping the patient chart the way forward. The practitioner should give the patient alternative options towards obtaining emotional support which is a very essential factor in such situations. The provision of comprehensive information about the condition is also essential to the approach of delivering information to the patient on genital HSV. The information should include risk factors and the general anticipated consequences of condition. Finally, the practitioner should be able to offer referrals and directions on how to handle the condition so as to reduce risks associated with the condition (Manos, 2001).
References
Golanty, E. and Edlin, G. (2009),. Health and wellness, 10th edition, Jones & Bartlett Learning
Manos, A. Z. (2001),. Doing psychotherapy with patients with genital herpes: Issues and interventions: Scandinavian Journal of behavior therapy, volume 30, issue 3, pp. 108-133
Swanson, J. M. (1999),. The biopsychosocial burden of genital herpes: evidence-based and other approaches to care. Dermatology Nursing Journal, volume 11, issue 4, pp. 257-262
