A patient asks when she should make an appointment for her first Pap (Papanicolaou) test to screen for cervical cancer. What is the nurse’s most appropriate response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The first Pap test should be done when a woman becomes sexually active or at age 21, whichever comes first. This is because cervical cancer is associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection. Screening at this stage helps detect any abnormalities early on, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
A: Incorrect. Waiting until after pregnancy is not recommended as early detection is crucial in preventing cervical cancer.
B: Incorrect. The age of menarche is not a reliable indicator for when to start screening for cervical cancer.
C: Incorrect. Waiting until 19 may miss early signs of cervical abnormalities that could lead to cancer.
In summary, choice D is the most appropriate response as it aligns with current screening guidelines and focuses on early detection for optimal outcomes.