A nurse is caring for a patient with suspected hepatitis. What should the nurse include in the patient's care plan? (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.

A.

Choice A rationale:

Choice A is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine provides active immunity, not passive immunity. Active immunity means that the body produces its antibodies in response to the vaccine, providing long-term protection against the virus.

Choice B rationale:

The hepatitis A vaccine is indeed recommended for travelers to areas with high prevalence of hepatitis

A. It helps protect travelers from acquiring the virus through contaminated food and water in regions where hepatitis A is more common.

Choice C rationale:

Choice C is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine is effective in preventing hepatitis A in close contacts of infected individuals. Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure for those who are in close contact with infected individuals, as it can help halt the spread of the virus.

Choice D rationale:

Choice D is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine is not given within 12 hours of birth to newborns of hepatitis A positive mothers. The vaccination schedule for hepatitis A vaccine varies depending on the country's recommendations but is typically given starting at 12-23 months of age.