A client has been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B infection. What antiviral agents may the nurse expect to be prescribed for this client's treatment? (Select all that apply)

Choice D rationale:

This statement accurately differentiates between acute and chronic hepatitis. Acute hepatitis is a short-term inflammation of the liver that typically resolves within six months. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, and C), alcohol consumption, or drug toxicity. On the other hand, chronic hepatitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the liver that persists for more than six months. Chronic hepatitis can result from ongoing viral infections (e.g., hepatitis B and C) or other causes, such as autoimmune diseases.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Acute hepatitis is a short-term condition that resolves within a few weeks to six months, while chronic hepatitis is the condition that can persist for an extended period.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is also incorrect. Acute hepatitis is primarily caused by viruses (e.g., hepatitis viruses), not bacteria. Chronic hepatitis is also related to viral infections, not bacterial infections.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is not accurate. Both acute and chronic hepatitis can have severe consequences, including liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis, especially when caused by hepatitis B or C viruses, can lead to the development of cirrhosis and increase the risk of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)

Choice A rationale:

While visual disturbances can occur as side effects of some medications, it is not the priority education for a patient undergoing antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Visual disturbances are not common or specific to antiviral therapy.

Choice B rationale:

Choice B is the correct answer because it is essential to educate the patient about avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs during antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Alcohol and certain medications can worsen liver function and interfere with the effectiveness of antiviral treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for a high-protein diet during treatment is not a priority in antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, there is no specific requirement for a high-protein diet during antiviral treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the patient to engage in strenuous physical activities to alleviate fatigue is not the priority education for a patient undergoing antiviral therapy. Strenuous physical activities might be counterproductive, as the patient may experience fatigue as a side effect of the therapy. Instead, the focus should be on adequate rest and moderate exercise.