LIMITATIONS
infections, gonorrhea, chlamydia
INFECTIONS, GONORRHEA
Limitations of this study include the small sample size, which reduced the ability to identify differences between groups if they existed. External validity is limited because the study was conducted at one ED whose population, setting, and resources may be different from other settings. Additionally, the overall low response rate to the interview invitation introduced the potential for selection bias. Due to limitations in data collection based on daily EHR reports, data was collected only on how many patients received EPT rather than how many patients may have been offered but then declined EPT. In addition, the ability of this EPT program to provide paper prescriptions could be unique. Electronic medication prescription is the norm in the US,Given the limits of this pilot study methodology, patients’ compliance to provide the “take-home” kits or paper prescriptions to their partners, if the paper prescriptions were filled, or if the medications were taken is unknown. The lack of follow-up limited our ability to confirm medication adherence and completion of treatment in this patient population. Prior randomized control trials with follow-up that also tracked subsequent STI infections have found a range in the number needed to treat (NNT) to prevent recurrent or persistent chlamydia or gonorrhea in the index patient, from five in a study of heterosexual men