USE OF INCORRECT RAPID TESTING FOR SYPHILIS EXPERIENCE REPORT

Introduction: The rapid test must be performed after advice. If it is used improperly, it can bring harm. Treponemic test for syphilis will Always be positive after a first infection. Objective: To analyze the experience of poor use of rapid test for syphilis(treponemic) in an unit of primary health care and its consequences for a family. Design: Experience report. Case Report: A 54years old woman with syphilis at 11years-old has made a rapid test for syphilis offered by members of the health team, without pre-test counselling, under the allegation of overload in attendance. Positive test result led to accusations of adultery between the patient and her husband, as well as a high level of tension and discussion couple. The problem was solved only after an intervention through the search for a history of previous pregressa disease in the couple, with clarification of what had occurred. Later, it was necessary to work with the family in order to get its confidence back. Conclusion: A good pre-test advice is essential, with a professional who knows the requester patient. The result of the examination will only make sense if we know the reason for the request, pathological current and previous history, along with the knowledge of the test`s possible errors. This avoids mistakes with serious consequences for the patient/family and loss of confidence in the professionals of the unit. A reorientation was set up for the whole team, with discussions of the doctor’s role and of the precaution when performing screening tests.