Key Points
■■Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a complex condition that
can involve a variety of inflammatory conditions caused by a
range of bacteria
■■PID is difficult to diagnose as there is no one diagnostic test
easily available
■■Caution needs to be taken that a PID diagnosis is not
mistakenly made for other more serious conditions;
particularly ectopic pregnancy or acute appendicitis
■■Nurses should always be aware of their scope of practice
and ensure they have the necessary skills to diagnose and
treat PID. Referral onwards or expert advice should always be
sought in uncertain circumstances
■■The treatment choices should reflect the needs of the patient,
with consideration to risks of sexually transmitted infection
(STI), seriousness of the condition and pregnancy risk
■■Consider the need for partner notification, health promotion
and follow-up to reduce chances of re-infection