A nurse is providing teaching with an antepartum client who has a new diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Which of the following information should the nurse include?
HSV-2 is not harmful to a developing fetus.
Transmission to the newborn is higher if lesions are present at birth.
Wear tight-fitting undergarments when lesions are present.
Taking antiviral medications will cure the condition.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) can be harmful to a developing fetus and newborn. While primary infection during the first trimester can rarely lead to congenital anomalies, the most significant risk is neonatal herpes, which occurs when the newborn is exposed to the virus during passage through the birth canal if active lesions are present. Neonatal herpes can cause severe, life-threatening complications.
Choice B rationale
Transmission of HSV-2 to the newborn is significantly higher if active genital lesions are present at the time of vaginal birth. The virus can be shed from these lesions and infect the infant as they pass through the birth canal. Therefore, a Cesarean section is typically recommended if active lesions are present at the onset of labor.
Choice C rationale
Wearing tight-fitting undergarments can increase moisture and friction, potentially irritating existing lesions and hindering healing. Loose-fitting cotton undergarments are generally recommended to allow air circulation and reduce irritation, promoting a more favorable environment for lesion resolution and comfort.
Choice D rationale
Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, can help manage genital herpes by reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks. They work by inhibiting viral replication. However, these medications do not cure the condition; HSV-2 remains a lifelong viral infection.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended for pregnant clients during the third trimester, specifically between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. This timing optimizes the transfer of maternal antibodies to the fetus, providing passive immunity against pertussis (whooping cough) in the newborn during their vulnerable early months, before they are old enough to receive their own vaccinations.
Choice B rationale
Inactivated influenza vaccine is highly recommended for pregnant clients during any trimester of pregnancy. Pregnancy alters the immune system, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to severe complications from influenza. Vaccination protects both the mother and, through passive antibody transfer, the newborn from influenza infection.
Choice C rationale
Varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of fetal infection. While the actual risk is very low, it is generally deferred until the postpartum period. Women of childbearing age should be screened for immunity and vaccinated if non-immune prior to conception or postpartum.
Choice D rationale
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of fetal infection, particularly with rubella. Rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to congenital rubella syndrome, causing severe birth defects. Vaccination should occur before conception or postpartum.
Choice E rationale
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is not routinely recommended during pregnancy. While current data do not suggest harm, the vaccine has not been extensively studied in pregnant individuals. Vaccination should be completed before pregnancy or deferred until the postpartum period.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Immediately bathing a newborn with herpes simplex virus is generally discouraged. While it might seem intuitive for infection control, vigorous bathing could theoretically disrupt skin integrity and potentially spread the virus to other areas of the body or mucous membranes, exacerbating the infection.
Choice B rationale
Initiating contact precautions is essential for a newborn with herpes simplex virus. This highly contagious viral infection requires strict measures to prevent transmission to other vulnerable neonates and healthcare providers. Contact precautions involve gown and glove use, limiting direct contact with the newborn or contaminated surfaces.
Choice C rationale
Administering ampicillin IV is not the appropriate treatment for herpes simplex virus. Ampicillin is an antibiotic effective against bacterial infections, not viral infections like herpes simplex. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, are the specific treatment for neonatal herpes simplex virus to inhibit viral replication.
Choice D rationale
Withholding breastfeeding is not typically indicated for a newborn with in utero transmitted herpes simplex virus unless the mother has active lesions on her breasts. The primary concern is direct skin-to-skin transmission if lesions are present. Breast milk itself provides beneficial antibodies and is not a route of transmission for in utero infection.
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