A client asks the nurse about the causative agents of hepatitis. Which statement by the nurse is correct?
"Hepatitis C is caused by a defective single-stranded RNA virus.”
"Hepatitis B is caused by a non-enveloped single-stranded RNA virus.”
"Hepatitis A is caused by an enveloped single-stranded RNA virus.”
"Hepatitis E is caused by a partially double-stranded DNA virus.”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Hepatitis C is indeed caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is a single-stranded RNA virus. The virus is classified under the Flaviviridae family and is known for its high genetic variability, leading to the development of multiple genotypes and subtypes. The RNA genome of HCV is not defective, but rather highly adaptable, making it challenging to develop effective vaccines and treatments. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, sharing needles, and, less commonly, through sexual contact and from mother to child during childbirth.
Choice B rationale:
Hepatitis B (HBV) is caused by a partially double-stranded DNA virus, not a non-enveloped single-stranded RNA virus. HBV belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family, and it is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. HBV can cause both acute and chronic liver infections.
Choice C rationale:
Hepatitis A (HAV) is caused by an enveloped single-stranded RNA virus, not hepatitis
C. HAV is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, typically due to contaminated food or water. It is usually a self-limiting disease that does not lead to chronic liver problems.
Choice D rationale:
Hepatitis E (HEV) is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus, but it is not partially double-stranded DNA, as stated in this choice. HEV is typically transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to HAV, and it can cause acute hepatitis, particularly in pregnant women, but it does not require a prior hepatitis B infection for transmission.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
This statement is accurate. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, such as sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood transfusions. However, there have been rare cases of HCV transmission through ingestion of contaminated food or water, although this is not the primary mode of transmission. The risk of acquiring HCV through food or water is significantly lower compared to hepatitis A or hepatitis
E.
Choice A rationale:
Hepatitis A (HAV) can indeed be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as the fecal-oral route. HAV is highly contagious and is commonly associated with outbreaks in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.
Choice B rationale:
Hepatitis B (HBV) is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, including blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of needles, and from mother to child during childbirth.
Choice D rationale:
Hepatitis E (HEV) is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to hepatitis
A. Unlike what is stated in this choice, HEV does not require a person to be already infected with hepatitis B to cause infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should expect to assess fever in a client with suspected hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A can cause flu-like symptoms, and fever is a common manifestation of the infection.
Choice C rationale:
Dark urine is another symptom the nurse should expect to assess in a client with hepatitis
A. Hepatitis A can cause jaundice, leading to dark-colored urine due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
Choice D rationale:
Abdominal pain is a symptom that the nurse should anticipate in a client with hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A can cause inflammation of the liver, leading to abdominal discomfort or pain in the right upper quadrant.
Choice E rationale:
Confusion is another possible symptom in a client with hepatitis
A. Severe cases of hepatitis A can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, causing confusion, altered mental status, and even coma.
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