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:
Airborne precautions are used for infectious agents that spread through small respiratory droplets and remain suspended in the air for long periods. Shingles is not transmitted through the airborne route.
Choice B rationale:
Droplet precautions are used for infectious agents that spread through large respiratory droplets and have a limited range. Shingles is not transmitted through large respiratory droplets.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct response. Contact precautions are implemented for patients with shingles (herpes zoster) because the virus spreads through direct contact with the rash or lesions.
Choice D rationale:
Standard precautions are used for all patients to prevent the transmission of infections from both recognized and unrecognized sources. However, for specific diseases like shingles, additional precautions like contact precautions are also required.
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