The health professionals’ experience of working with young adults diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection

Abstract

The motive of this dissertation research is to explore the health professionals’ experience of working with young adults diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection. The aim of this dissertation research is to enhance awareness on sexual health and to encourage young adults to obtain a healthier sexual way of life. The data for this research was collected through semistructured interviews with five health professionals who work in different areas; doctors, nurses and a psychologist. The participants have been recruited because they are the experts of their own experiences and they are able to give a legitimate example of today's reality. Analysis of data was carried out using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings highlighted the main obligations health professionals need to observe, the challenges that they face and the support that they offer to young adults. More so, findings also demonstrated the immense need of educating young adults about sexual health in order to enhance awareness and reduce the stigma, shame and fear that is associated with sexually transmitted infections.