A client diagnosed with herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection asks the nurse about the complications associated with the condition.
Which complication should the nurse prioritize in explaining to the client?
Recurrent outbreaks.
Bacterial skin infections.
Allergic reactions to antiviral medications.
Gastrointestinal bleeding.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should prioritize explaining the complication of recurrent outbreaks to the client.
Recurrent outbreaks of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection are a common and distressing complication.
These outbreaks involve the reactivation of the virus, leading to the return of painful lesions and symptoms.
Recurrent outbreaks can have a significant impact on the patient's quality of life and may require ongoing management with antiviral medications.
Choice B rationale:
Bacterial skin infections are not the primary complication associated with HSV infection.
While secondary bacterial infections can occur if HSV lesions become superinfected, they are not the most critical complication to prioritize when educating the client.
Choice C rationale:
Allergic reactions to antiviral medications are a potential complication, but they are relatively rare.
While it is important to inform the client about potential side effects and allergic reactions, recurrent outbreaks are a more common and immediate concern in the context of HSV infection.
Choice D rationale:
Gastrointestinal bleeding is not a typical complication of HSV infection.
HSV primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes, and gastrointestinal bleeding is not directly related to the virus.
Therefore, it is not the complication that should be prioritized in explaining to the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"HSV-1 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact." This statement is incorrect.
While HSV-1 can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is not primarily transmitted in this way.
HSV-1 is more commonly associated with oral-to-oral contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils.
Choice B rationale:
"HSV-1 is commonly transmitted through oral-to-oral contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils." This statement is correct.
HSV-1 is commonly transmitted through oral-to-oral contact.
It can be spread through activities like kissing or sharing utensils that come into contact with the oral mucosa, where the virus resides.
Choice C rationale:
"HSV-1 is mainly transmitted through exposure to infected genital secretions." This statement is incorrect.
HSV-1 is primarily associated with oral infections and is not typically transmitted through exposure to infected genital secretions.
Choice D rationale:
"HSV-1 transmission is exclusively through blood transfusions." This statement is incorrect.
HSV-1 transmission is not exclusively through blood transfusions.
While it is possible to transmit HSV-1 through blood transfusions in rare cases, it is not the primary mode of transmission.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Administering antibiotics to treat the viral infection." This choice is incorrect because antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like herpes simplex virus.
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viruses.
Choice B rationale:
"Encouraging the client to stay hydrated." Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate the discomfort associated with the condition.
Choice C rationale:
"Counseling the client for emotional support." Emotional support is crucial for clients dealing with herpes simplex virus infection, as it can be emotionally distressing.
Counseling can help clients cope with the psychological impact of the diagnosis and reduce stress.
Choice D rationale:
"Collecting specimens for viral cultures." Collecting specimens for viral cultures is appropriate for confirming the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps identify the specific strain of the virus and can guide treatment decisions.
Choice E rationale:
"Applying topical creams to alleviate pain and promote healing." While applying topical creams can help alleviate pain and promote healing of lesions caused by herpes simplex virus infection, it does not involve nursing interventions.
It is typically part of the treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider.
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