(Select all that apply) A nurse is providing care to a client diagnosed with shingles. Which of the following complications are associated with shingles?

Choice A rationale:

(Correct) Excluding infected individuals from school or work until all lesions are crusted over is an important measure in preventing the spread of chickenpox. This helps to reduce the risk of transmission to others.

Choice B rationale:

(Correct) Practicing good hand hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. Regular handwashing helps reduce the likelihood of virus transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals.

Choice C rationale:

(Incorrect) Sharing personal items such as towels with infected individuals can increase the risk of spreading the virus. It is crucial for the nurse to discourage such practices during the community class.

Choice D rationale:

(Incorrect) While reporting cases of chickenpox or shingles to local health authorities is important for surveillance purposes, it is not a preventive measure for individual protection.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should recommend applying calamine lotion to soothe and dry the chickenpox lesions. Calamine lotion has a soothing effect on the skin and can help reduce the itching associated with chickenpox. It also helps to dry out the lesions, which may aid in the healing process. However, it is essential to advise the family not to apply calamine lotion on open sores or areas with broken skin to avoid potential irritation.

Choice B rationale:

Giving aspirin to a child with chickenpox is not recommended. Aspirin has been associated with an increased risk of Reye's syndrome in children with viral infections, including chickenpox. Reye's syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that affects the brain and liver.

Choice C rationale:

Antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, are often prescribed for severe cases of chickenpox or for individuals at high risk of complications. These drugs can help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms. They are not to be avoided to prevent side effects, as the benefits generally outweigh the potential risks.

Choice D rationale:

Allowing the child to play outside may not be the best approach to distract them from itching. It is crucial to prevent the child from scratching the rash to avoid secondary bacterial infections and scarring. Engaging the child in indoor activities and providing distractions that do not involve scratching would be a safer approach.