title: Latino Adolescent Perspectives Toward Sexually Transmitted Infection Educational Programs.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The study aims to identify knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among Latino adolescents, to explore programmatic components that are essential for an effective educational program, and to explore gender differences regarding STI knowledge and essential components.
  
  
  METHODS
  A naturalistic inquiry approach was used.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Knowledge of specific STIs was minimal. Themes including humor, fear, empowered decision-making, peer educators, self-protection, knowledge and information on STIs, and consistency of the sexual health education were identified as essential components for STI educational programs.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The findings of this study enhance the understanding of STIs, sexual behaviors, and essential components of an effective STI educational program as perceived by Latino adolescents.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  It is essential for nurses to provide accurate information about STIs and safe sex to help decrease the transmission of STIs.
authors: School of Nursing, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois.
authors: Young Me
authors: YM
authors: Lee
authors: School of Nursing, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois.
authors: Elizabeth
authors: E
authors: Florez
authors: Niehoff School of Nursing, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
authors: Karyn
authors: K
authors: Holm
authors: DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois.
authors: Jessica
authors: J
authors: Horwitz
authors: DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois.
authors: Rachel
authors: R
authors: Waters
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011209:Power, Psychological; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*
keywords: Educational program; Latino adolescent; STI; STI knowledge; essential component