A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about dietary intake to promote wound healing.
Which of the following vitamins should the nurse recommend?

Choice A rationale

Acyclovir reduces the frequency and severity of herpes outbreaks but does not prevent transmission. The virus can still be spread through asymptomatic viral shedding, and unprotected sex increases the risk of transmitting the infection to partners.

Choice B rationale

Herpes simplex virus type 2 primarily affects the genital area but can spread to other locations, such as the mouth or fingers, through direct contact with infected secretions. This statement is scientifically incorrect and reflects a lack of understanding.

Choice C rationale

Stress weakens the immune system, triggering latent herpes simplex virus reactivation. This leads to the recurrence of lesions as the virus travels along the nerve pathways to the skin or mucous membranes. Management includes antiviral medications and stress reduction strategies.

Choice D rationale

Herpes simplex virus is contagious even without visible lesions due to asymptomatic viral shedding. The virus can be transmitted to sexual partners during this period, making barrier protection essential at all times to reduce transmission risk. .

Choice A rationale

Odor is typical with colostomy stools, originating from bacterial digestion in the colon. It does not indicate pathology. Proper hygiene and dietary modifications help minimize it but are not alarming. Persistent foul odor could suggest infection, warranting medical review only if paired with other symptoms like fever.

Choice B rationale

Soft or unformed stools are consistent with colonic waste excretion post-colostomy. Stool consistency varies based on stoma location in the colon. Proximal colostomies generally produce less formed stools, and this finding is expected unless linked to diarrhea or dehydration concerns.

Choice C rationale

A purplish stoma indicates compromised blood flow and potential ischemia, necessitating immediate provider notification. Normal stoma color is pink to red, reflecting adequate perfusion. Stoma ischemia can lead to necrosis and systemic infection, requiring urgent surgical evaluation and management.

Choice D rationale

Slight bleeding around the stoma is typical, especially during cleaning or bag changes. The stoma is vascular and prone to minor trauma-induced bleeding. Persistent or heavy bleeding may indicate pathology, but slight bleeding is a benign and expected finding requiring no urgent action.