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,C,D
Explanation
Observe the newborn's respirations. Auscultate the newborn's heart rate. Auscultate newborn's abdomen. Test the newborn's reflexes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A temperature of 37.7° C (99.9° F) in the immediate postpartum period is a relatively common and often benign finding, typically within normal limits or indicating mild dehydration or exertion from labor. A slight elevation is not usually a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other signs of infection, which would warrant further investigation. Normal range is 36.5° C to 37.5° C (97.7° F to 99.5° F).
Choice B rationale
A boggy fundus is a significant finding that the nurse should report immediately. A boggy, soft uterus indicates uterine atony, which means the uterine muscles are not contracting effectively. This significantly increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to inadequate compression of uterine blood vessels.
Choice C rationale
Lochia rubra with small clots is considered a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period. Lochia rubra is the initial dark red discharge consisting of blood, decidual tissue, and mucus. Small clots are expected as blood clots and detaches from the uterine wall, reflecting normal uterine involution.
Choice D rationale
Minimal perineal edema is a normal and expected finding after vaginal delivery. The trauma of childbirth often results in some degree of swelling in the perineal area. "Minimal" edema indicates that the swelling is not excessive and does not suggest a complication requiring immediate reporting to the provider.
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