A patient with hepatitis B asks the nurse about prevention strategies. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the nurse's teaching?

Choice A rationale:

The administration of the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is an appropriate intervention for suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is a defective virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B to replicate, so administering the hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis D infection in exposed contacts. HBIG contains antibodies against hepatitis B, which can provide temporary protection to exposed contacts.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact or use condoms until cleared of infection is crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis D. The virus can be transmitted through blood and sexual contact, so precautionary measures are essential.

Choice C rationale:

The availability and benefits of the hepatitis D vaccine for prevention should be communicated to the patient. Currently, there is no specific treatment for hepatitis D infection, and vaccination is the most effective preventive measure.

Choice D rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is essential in managing hepatitis D. Hepatitis D can lead to severe liver complications, and monitoring liver function and viral load helps in evaluating disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

Choice E rationale:

Disinfecting contaminated surfaces or instruments with bleach or autoclave is not directly related to the care of a patient with suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is primarily transmitted through blood and sexual contact, not through contaminated surfaces or instruments.

Choice A rationale:

Hepatitis C is indeed caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is a single-stranded RNA virus. The virus is classified under the Flaviviridae family and is known for its high genetic variability, leading to the development of multiple genotypes and subtypes. The RNA genome of HCV is not defective, but rather highly adaptable, making it challenging to develop effective vaccines and treatments. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, sharing needles, and, less commonly, through sexual contact and from mother to child during childbirth.

Choice B rationale:

Hepatitis B (HBV) is caused by a partially double-stranded DNA virus, not a non-enveloped single-stranded RNA virus. HBV belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family, and it is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. HBV can cause both acute and chronic liver infections.

Choice C rationale:

Hepatitis A (HAV) is caused by an enveloped single-stranded RNA virus, not hepatitis

C. HAV is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, typically due to contaminated food or water. It is usually a self-limiting disease that does not lead to chronic liver problems.

Choice D rationale:

Hepatitis E (HEV) is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus, but it is not partially double-stranded DNA, as stated in this choice. HEV is typically transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to HAV, and it can cause acute hepatitis, particularly in pregnant women, but it does not require a prior hepatitis B infection for transmission.