A nurse is discussing the transmission cycle of VZV with a nursing student. Which statement by the student indicates a need for further education?
"Primary infection occurs when a person comes into contact with respiratory droplets.”
"Reactivation of VZV in the nerve cells leads to the onset of chickenpox.”
"The incubation period of VZV ranges from 10 to 21 days.”
"The risk of transmission is lower during reactivation compared to primary infection.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The primary infection of VZV occurs through respiratory droplets, not when a person comes into contact with them. The virus is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory secretions.
Choice B rationale:
Reactivation of VZV in the nerve cells leads to the onset of shingles, not chickenpox. Chickenpox is the primary infection, and after recovery, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate as shingles later in life.
Choice C rationale:
The incubation period of VZV for chickenpox ranges from 10 to 21 days, which is accurate information.
Choice D rationale:
The risk of transmission during reactivation (shingles) is higher than during primary infection (chickenpox) Shingles can cause the development of vesicles containing the virus, which can be contagious if someone comes into direct contact with the fluid from the vesicles. Primary chickenpox, on the other hand, spreads through respiratory droplets and is more widespread during the initial infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Anemia is not a complication typically associated with shingles. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and it primarily affects the nerves and skin, leading to a painful rash.
Choice B rationale:
Migraine headaches are not directly related to shingles. Shingles affects sensory nerves and typically presents with localized pain and a rash along the affected nerve's pathway.
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should monitor for postherpetic neuralgia in this client. Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication of shingles that involves persistent and severe pain in the area where the rash was present. It occurs due to nerve damage caused by the virus, and the pain can last for weeks to months after the rash has healed.
Choice D rationale:
Asthma is not a complication associated with shingles. Shingles is a viral infection that primarily affects the skin and nerves and does not involve the respiratory system.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Incorrect) Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can be transmitted through direct contact with the fluid from the vesicles (blisters) of a person who has active shingles. However, it is important for the nurse to provide correct information to the client.
Choice B rationale:
(Correct) Shingles can only occur in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues. Later in life, the virus can reactivate, leading to shingles. It is crucial for the nurse to emphasize this point to prevent any misunderstandings.
Choice C rationale:
(Incorrect) While the shingles vaccine is effective in reducing the risk of developing shingles, it does not have a 100% efficacy rate. The vaccine can, however, reduce the severity and duration of the illness if shingles still occur after vaccination.
Choice D rationale:
(Incorrect) The herpes zoster vaccine (shingles vaccine) is not given to children under 10 years old. It is recommended for adults aged 50 years and older or for individuals with certain risk factors.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.