TH6.3 Establishing a sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing programme in an ambulatory surgical clinic for female patients aged 18–44 years presenting with abdominal pain

Abstract Introduction Young females presenting to hospital with acute abdominal pain (AP) are often discharged without clear diagnoses. Gynaecological causes including chlamydia and gonorrhoea (C&G) increasing, however STI testing remains underutilised. This study aims to: 1. Establish robust in an ambulatory surgical clinic (ASC), utilising collaborative pathways between GUM EGS services. 2. Identify barriers. Methods pilot ran from October December 2021. GUM-led training for all ASC staff was delivered. All (18–44yrs) AP were offered vulvo-vaginal self-swabs (VVS) a patient information leaflet. Positive results referred treatment contact tracing. Following the pilot, focus group facilitated identify barriers potential improvements. Results Twelve eligible patients (mean 28yrs) consented testing. negative C&G. Fifteen declined 33yrs). The remaining population not approached. Barriers identified included: nursing concerns that offering VVS could make feel judged regarding sexual promiscuity; male being uncomfortable discussing VVS; other overhearing; single toilet inadequate Conclusions confirmed programme can be delivered within ASC, which we believe is first country. Strong working & teams mutually beneficial pathways. However, low numbers of undertook testing, accounting lack positive results. Clear addressed prior delivery second period pathway rollout.