A nurse is caring for a 30-year-old pregnant patient who has tested positive for syphilis during her 18 week prenatal visit. Which nursing intervention is the priority in the management of this patient?

Schedule follow-up serologic testing for syphilis titers.

Ensure the patient and partner takes penicillin therapy as prescribed.

Inform the patient about the risk of congenital syphilis and the potential consequences.

Educate the patient on safe sexual practices to prevent further STIs.