(Quoted statement) A client with shingles asks the nurse about the best way to manage pain. Which response by the nurse is accurate?
"Apply corticosteroids topically to reduce inflammation.”
"Use over-the-counter antibiotics to prevent secondary infection.”
"Start antiviral drugs within 72 hours of rash onset.”
"Consider topical capsaicin for neuropathic pain relief.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Topical corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in various skin conditions, but they are not the best option for managing pain associated with shingles (herpes zoster) Corticosteroids primarily target inflammation and do not provide effective pain relief in neuropathic pain, which is characteristic of shingles.
Choice B rationale:
Antibiotics are not useful for managing the pain caused by shingles. Shingles is a viral infection, not a bacterial one, so antibiotics would not be effective in reducing pain or preventing secondary infection.
Choice C rationale:
Starting antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, within 72 hours of rash onset is essential for managing shingles. These medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness and may also decrease the risk of developing complications like postherpetic neuralgia.
Choice D rationale:
Topical capsaicin is an appropriate option for neuropathic pain relief in shingles. Capsaicin, derived from chili peppers, works by desensitizing the nerve endings and reducing pain signals. However, it may cause a burning sensation initially, and the client should be advised on proper application and hand hygiene afterward.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Young age. This statement is incorrect. While shingles is more common in older adults, it can still occur in individuals of any age. Young age is not a risk factor for developing shingles.
Choice B rationale:
Stress. This statement is correct. Stress weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to shingles. Emotional or physical stress can trigger shingles in people who have already had chickenpox.
Choice C rationale:
Immunocompromised status. This statement is correct. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, cancer, or taking immunosuppressive medications, have a higher risk of developing shingles because their bodies may have difficulty controlling the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus.
Choice D rationale:
Trauma. This statement is correct. Physical trauma or injury to the skin can increase the risk of shingles in the affected area. The trauma can disrupt the nerve pathways and trigger the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus.
Choice E rationale:
Allergic to gelatin or neomycin. This statement is correct. The varicella vaccine contains trace amounts of gelatin and neomycin. Individuals with severe allergies to these components should not receive the vaccine to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Tuberculosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Monitoring vital signs, fluid intake, and output is important for assessing the client's overall health and hydration status, but it does not specifically address preventing the transmission of the virus.
Choice B rationale:
Providing comfort measures like cool compresses and loose clothing can help alleviate symptoms and discomfort, but it does not directly address preventing the transmission of the virus.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging oral hygiene and a soft diet is essential for managing the client's symptoms and promoting healing, but it does not focus on preventing the spread of the virus to others.
Choice D rationale:
Isolating the patient until all lesions are crusted over is a crucial nursing intervention to prevent transmission of the chickenpox virus. Chickenpox is highly contagious, primarily spread through respiratory droplets and contact with the fluid from the skin lesions. By isolating the patient until all lesions have crusted over, the risk of spreading the virus to others is significantly reduced.
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