(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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Anemia is not a complication typically associated with shingles. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and it primarily affects the nerves and skin, leading to a painful rash.
Choice B rationale:
Migraine headaches are not directly related to shingles. Shingles affects sensory nerves and typically presents with localized pain and a rash along the affected nerve's pathway.
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should monitor for postherpetic neuralgia in this client. Postherpetic neuralgia is a common complication of shingles that involves persistent and severe pain in the area where the rash was present. It occurs due to nerve damage caused by the virus, and the pain can last for weeks to months after the rash has healed.
Choice D rationale:
Asthma is not a complication associated with shingles. Shingles is a viral infection that primarily affects the skin and nerves and does not involve the respiratory system.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.