A client presents with a prodrome of pain, tingling, burning, or itching in the affected dermatome. The nurse observes a unilateral, clustered, vesicular rash that follows the course of the sensory nerve. The rash involves the thoracic nerve. Which of the following complications should the nurse monitor for in this client?

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.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging using sterile instruments for cutting umbilical cords is important in preventing tetanus as contaminated instruments can introduce the

C. tetani spores, leading to infection.

Choice B rationale:

Promoting safe delivery practices in clean facilities is crucial to prevent tetanus in newborns. Clean delivery facilities reduce the risk of exposure to

C. tetani spores, which can enter through unclean delivery practices.

Choice C rationale:

Advising against disposing of animal feces properly is not directly related to preventing tetanus. Tetanus is primarily caused by the introduction of

C. tetani spores into wounds, not through exposure to animal feces.

Choice D rationale:

Educating on avoiding contact with soil or feces that may contain

C. tetani spores is essential in preventing tetanus. The spores can be found in soil and feces, and direct contact with these sources increases the risk of infection.

Choice E rationale:

Suggesting regular booster doses of DTP vaccine during adulthood is an effective measure in preventing tetanus. The DTP vaccine provides immunity against tetanus, and regular boosters are recommended to maintain protection throughout life.