A nurse is teaching a client about strategies to manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which of the following statements should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is highly contagious through direct contact with the virus, which can be present on towels and other personal items. Sharing towels, even with family members, can facilitate the transmission of the virus, especially during active outbreaks.

Choice B rationale

Prior to the development of visible blisters, many individuals with HSV-2 experience prodromal symptoms such as itching, tingling, or burning at the site where the lesions will eventually appear. This indicates an understanding of the early signs of a recurrent outbreak.

Choice C rationale

Daily antiviral medication for HSV-2 is suppressive therapy, which helps to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks, as well as the risk of transmission. However, it does not entirely prevent the occurrence of sores in all individuals.

Choice D rationale

Even after the blisters rupture and begin to heal, the herpes simplex virus can still be present in the secretions and can potentially be transmitted to others through direct contact until the lesions are completely healed and the skin is intact.

Choice A rationale

While it is understandable that a client with a patch on one eye after cataract surgery might express fear of falling due to altered depth perception, this comment reflects anxiety and a potential safety concern that the nurse should address with safety measures and reassurance, but it is not necessarily an unexpected complication requiring immediate reporting to the provider.

Choice B rationale

Reporting severe eye pain to the provider is crucial following cataract surgery. While some mild discomfort is expected, significant pain can indicate a potential complication such as increased intraocular pressure, infection (endophthalmitis), or corneal abrasion, all of which require prompt medical evaluation and intervention to prevent vision loss.

Choice C rationale

Mild itching after cataract surgery can be related to the healing process or the surgical dressing. Instructing the client not to rub the eye is appropriate to prevent infection or disruption of the surgical site. While the nurse should reinforce this instruction, the itching itself, without other signs of complications, does not necessarily warrant immediate reporting to the provider.

Choice D rationale

Sensitivity to bright light (photophobia) is a common occurrence after cataract surgery due to pupillary dilation during the procedure and the eye's adjustment to the new lens. Providing sunglasses or dimming the lights can help alleviate this discomfort. While the nurse should address this concern, it is a common and expected symptom that does not usually require immediate reporting to the provider unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. .