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 B
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
The symptoms described in the scenario, such as fever, headache, malaise, anorexia, pharyngitis, and the progression of a generalized pruritic rash from macules to papules to vesicles to pustules to crusts, are indicative of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection, commonly known as chickenpox. Otitis media (choice B) can be a complication of chickenpox, especially in children.
Choice A rationale:
Chronic kidney disease (choice A) is not a common complication of chickenpox. It is more commonly associated with conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Choice C rationale:
Rheumatoid arthritis (choice C) is an autoimmune condition and is not a known complication of chickenpox.
Choice D rationale:
Type 2 diabetes (choice D) is not a common complication of chickenpox. Diabetes can increase the risk of infection, but it is not directly related to chickenpox.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should recommend applying calamine lotion to soothe and dry the chickenpox lesions. Calamine lotion has a soothing effect on the skin and can help reduce the itching associated with chickenpox. It also helps to dry out the lesions, which may aid in the healing process. However, it is essential to advise the family not to apply calamine lotion on open sores or areas with broken skin to avoid potential irritation.
Choice B rationale:
Giving aspirin to a child with chickenpox is not recommended. Aspirin has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome in children with viral infections, including chickenpox. Reye's syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that affects the brain and liver.
Choice C rationale:
Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, are often prescribed for severe cases of chickenpox or for individuals at high risk of complications. These drugs can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms. They are not to be avoided to prevent side effects, as the benefits generally outweigh the potential risks.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing the child to play outside may not be the best approach to distract them from itching. It is crucial to prevent the child from scratching the rash to avoid secondary bacterial infections and scarring. Engaging the child in indoor activities and providing distractions that do not involve scratching would be a safer approach.
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