The human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States. External genital warts (EGWs) are a commonly seen clinical manifestation of infection with certain strains of the HPV virus, particularly HPV types 6 and 11. Current treatments for the destruction and elimination of EGWs include in-office, provider-delivered therapy and patient-applied medications. Sinecatechins ointment 15% is the newest FDA-approved patient-applied treatment for EGWs. This article reviews the transmission and clinical presentation of EGWs, describes the use of sinecatechins ointment 15% as one patient-applied treatment option and discusses implications for nurses.
© 2012 AWHONN.