A nurse is educating a client about herpes simplex virus infections. Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding asymptomatic shedding?
"Asymptomatic shedding occurs only in individuals with a strong immune system.".
"Asymptomatic shedding is characterized by the presence of genital ulcers.".
"During asymptomatic shedding, the virus cannot be transmitted to others.".
"Some individuals may not experience symptoms but can still transmit the virus.".
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
"Asymptomatic shedding occurs only in individuals with a strong immune system." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding can occur in individuals with both strong and weakened immune systems.
It is not solely dependent on immune system strength.
Choice B rationale:
"Asymptomatic shedding is characterized by the presence of genital ulcers." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding refers to the period when the virus is active and can be transmitted to others, but it occurs without noticeable symptoms or genital ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
"During asymptomatic shedding, the virus cannot be transmitted to others." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding is a significant concern because the virus can be transmitted to sexual partners even when the infected individual does not have visible symptoms.
The absence of symptoms does not mean the virus is not contagious.
Choice D rationale:
"Some individuals may not experience symptoms but can still transmit the virus." This statement is accurate and reflects the nature of herpes simplex virus infections.
Many individuals infected with HSV may not exhibit symptoms but can still shed the virus and potentially transmit it to others through sexual contact or close personal contact.
This highlights the importance of safe practices and disclosure in intimate relationships.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I should apply topical creams to the affected areas for pain relief." While topical creams can provide pain relief for the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection, they do not address the root cause of the infection.
Antiviral medications are essential to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and to prevent viral shedding and transmission.
Choice B rationale:
"I can skip doses of the antiviral medication if I start feeling better." This statement is incorrect.
Skipping doses of antiviral medication can lead to the virus becoming resistant to the medication and may result in a recurrence of symptoms.
It is crucial for the client to take the antiviral medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale:
"I should take my antiviral medication as prescribed to reduce symptoms." This statement indicates a correct understanding of the treatment for herpes simplex virus infection.
It emphasizes the importance of adherence to the prescribed antiviral medication regimen to manage and reduce symptoms effectively.
Choice D rationale:
"I can rely on hydration alone to manage my symptoms." Hydration is essential for overall health, but it cannot replace antiviral medication in the management of herpes simplex virus infection.
Antiviral medications are specific treatments that target the virus, while hydration addresses general well-being.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Administering topical treatments to the genital ulcers." Administering topical treatments is essential for symptom management in genital herpes, but it is not the priority action in this situation.
The priority should be to assess and collect specimens for testing to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale:
"Collecting specimens for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing." This is the correct answer because collecting specimens for PCR testing is the priority action when a client presents with painful genital ulcers and flu-like symptoms.
PCR testing can confirm the presence of herpes simplex virus and guide treatment decisions.
Choice C rationale:
"Obtaining a detailed sexual history from the client." While obtaining a sexual history is an important part of assessing and managing sexually transmitted infections, it is not the immediate priority in this situation.
Confirming the diagnosis through testing takes precedence.
Choice D rationale:
"Focusing on the client's emotional well-being." Emotional well-being is essential, but it is not the priority action when a client presents with symptoms suggestive of genital herpes.
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