A client asks the nurse, "What are the complications associated with chickenpox and shingles?" Which of the following responses by the nurse is correct?
"Both chickenpox and shingles can lead to heart disease.”
"The only complication of chickenpox is bacterial skin infections.”
"Shingles can result in a generalized vesicular rash.”
"Complications of chickenpox and shingles include pneumonia, encephalitis, and postherpetic neuralgia.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Chickenpox and shingles are viral infections, and while they can cause systemic symptoms, they are not directly linked to heart disease.
Choice B rationale:
The complications of chickenpox go beyond bacterial skin infections. While bacterial superinfections are possible, the more severe complications are associated with the virus itself.
Choice C rationale:
Shingles is characterized by a localized rash along the distribution of a sensory nerve, not a generalized vesicular rash.
Choice D rationale:
Complications of both chickenpox and shingles include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and postherpetic neuralgia (persistent nerve pain following shingles) These complications can be serious and require medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should recommend applying calamine lotion to soothe and dry the chickenpox lesions. Calamine lotion has a soothing effect on the skin and can help reduce the itching associated with chickenpox. It also helps to dry out the lesions, which may aid in the healing process. However, it is essential to advise the family not to apply calamine lotion on open sores or areas with broken skin to avoid potential irritation.
Choice B rationale:
Giving aspirin to a child with chickenpox is not recommended. Aspirin has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome in children with viral infections, including chickenpox. Reye's syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that affects the brain and liver.
Choice C rationale:
Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, are often prescribed for severe cases of chickenpox or for individuals at high risk of complications. These drugs can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms. They are not to be avoided to prevent side effects, as the benefits generally outweigh the potential risks.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing the child to play outside may not be the best approach to distract them from itching. It is crucial to prevent the child from scratching the rash to avoid secondary bacterial infections and scarring. Engaging the child in indoor activities and providing distractions that do not involve scratching would be a safer approach.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) is not useful in confirming the diagnosis of chickenpox. CBC provides information about the number and types of blood cells but is not specific to chickenpox diagnosis.
Choice B rationale:
Stool culture is not relevant in confirming the diagnosis of chickenpox. Stool culture is used to identify gastrointestinal infections, and it is not associated with chickenpox.
Choice C rationale:
Tzanck smear and viral culture from vesicle fluid are useful in confirming the diagnosis of chickenpox. Tzanck smear involves taking a sample from the vesicle and staining it to identify multinucleated giant cells, which are characteristic of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. Viral culture involves growing the VZV in a lab to confirm the presence of the virus.
Choice D rationale:
Urinalysis is not relevant in confirming the diagnosis of chickenpox. Urinalysis is used to assess kidney function and detect urinary tract infections, but it does not help in diagnosing chickenpox.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.