Which of the following practices is essential after a diagnosis of gonorrhea?

Following a diagnosis of gonorrhea, it is essential to provide concomitant treatment for Chlamydia due to the significant overlap between the two infections. Gonorrhea and chlamydial infections often co-occur, and treating for both is critical to ensure complete resolution of symptoms and reduce the risk of complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, which can result from untreated infections.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends dual therapy for the treatment of gonorrhea, typically combining an antibiotic like ceftriaxone with azithromycin or doxycycline. This approach helps cover potential co-infection with Chlamydia, as Chlamydia can frequently present asymptomatically and go undiagnosed if not treated simultaneously.

The other options do not reflect appropriate management for gonorrhea. Limiting treatment to just one antibiotic without addressing the potential for a Chlamydia infection, not administering any treatment at all, or providing only symptomatic care do not effectively address the public health concern and personal health needs of the patient with gonorrhea.