A woman comes to the clinic for a routine checkup. After obtaining the client's history, the nurse identifies that the client is at increased risk for cervical cancer based on her history of exposure to which virus?

A. Fatigue - Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy and can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. While it can be debilitating and affect daily activities, it is not typically considered as serious as myelosuppression. Fatigue usually improves over time after completion of chemotherapy treatment.

B. Hair loss - Hair loss, or alopecia, is another common side effect of chemotherapy. It can be distressing for many patients, but it is generally not considered medically serious. Hair typically grows back after the completion of chemotherapy treatment.

C. Vomiting - Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy, known as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). While they can cause discomfort and affect a patient's well-being, they are usually manageable with antiemetic medications. In severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances may occur, but they are generally reversible and not as serious as myelosuppression.

D. Myelosuppression - Myelosuppression, also known as bone marrow suppression, is a serious side effect of chemotherapy. It can lead to a decrease in the production of blood cells (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets) by the bone marrow. This can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not managed promptly. Myelosuppression requires close monitoring and may necessitate treatment adjustments or supportive care measures to prevent complications.

A. Candidiasis:

Candidiasis is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the vagina. It typically presents with symptoms such as thick, white vaginal discharge (resembling cottage cheese), itching, and discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). This option is the most likely diagnosis based on the client's symptoms.

B. Genital herpes simplex:

Genital herpes simplex is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It presents with symptoms such as painful, fluid-filled blisters or sores in the genital area. While genital herpes can cause vaginal discharge, the discharge is typically clear or cloudy, not thick and white as described in the scenario.

C. Trichomoniasis:

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It commonly presents with symptoms such as a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge, itching, and discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse. The discharge is typically not described as thick and white.

D. Bacterial vaginosis:

Bacterial vaginosis results from an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. It presents with symptoms such as a thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge with a fishy odor. While bacterial vaginosis can cause vaginal discomfort, the discharge is not typically described as thick and white.