A client has been diagnosed with hepatitis C and started on antiviral therapy. What side effects should the nurse monitor for in this client? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale:

The administration of the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is an appropriate intervention for suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is a defective virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B to replicate, so administering the hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis D infection in exposed contacts. HBIG contains antibodies against hepatitis B, which can provide temporary protection to exposed contacts.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact or use condoms until cleared of infection is crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis D. The virus can be transmitted through blood and sexual contact, so precautionary measures are essential.

Choice C rationale:

The availability and benefits of the hepatitis D vaccine for prevention should be communicated to the patient. Currently, there is no specific treatment for hepatitis D infection, and vaccination is the most effective preventive measure.

Choice D rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is essential in managing hepatitis D. Hepatitis D can lead to severe liver complications, and monitoring liver function and viral load helps in evaluating disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

Choice E rationale:

Disinfecting contaminated surfaces or instruments with bleach or autoclave is not directly related to the care of a patient with suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is primarily transmitted through blood and sexual contact, not through contaminated surfaces or instruments.

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.