Empiric STI Treatment

• While tests are pending, empiric treatment for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea should be provided for those at increased risk (e.g., women <25 years, new sex partner, known STI exposure), if follow-up cannot be ensured.
• For those at lower risk and reliable follow-up, deferring treatment until results are available may be an option.
  • Provider judgment and shared decision making are vital to this decision.

Trichomoniasis generally does not require empiric treatment: only if detected.

These pathways do not establish a standard of care to be followed in every case. It is recognized that each case is different, and those individuals involved in providing health care are expected to use their judgment in determining what is in the best interests of the patient based on the circumstances existing at the time. It is impossible to anticipate all possible situations that may exist and to prepare a pathway for each. Accordingly, these pathways should guide care with the understanding that departures from them may be required at times.