Which of the following is a characteristic clinical stage of measles infection?

Choice B rationale:

The statement "The rash usually fades in the opposite order it appeared" indicates an understanding of the characteristic rash of measles. In measles, the rash typically follows a specific pattern, starting on the face and spreading downward to the extremities. As the rash resolves, it fades in the reverse order, disappearing first from the extremities and then from the face.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. The rash of measles starts on the face and then spreads to the extremities.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is also incorrect. The rash of measles is not typically associated with intense itching. It is a maculopapular rash, which means it consists of flat red spots and raised bumps, but itching is not a prominent feature.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. The rash of measles is not limited to the face and trunk; it affects the entire body.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the client to avoid exposure to sunlight is not a preventive measure for measles. Measles is a viral infection transmitted through respiratory droplets, not sunlight exposure. Sunlight exposure is important for the synthesis of vitamin D and has no direct relation to measles prevention.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the client to avoid contact with people who have a common cold is not a preventive measure for measles. While respiratory infections might have similar symptoms to measles, the viruses causing them are different, and avoiding people with a common cold would not protect against measles.

Choice C rationale:

Suggesting the client receive the live attenuated measles vaccine as part of the MMR combination is the correct preventive measure for measles. The MMR vaccine contains live but weakened forms of measles, mumps, and rubella viruses. It provides immunity against these diseases and is highly effective in preventing measles infection.

Choice D rationale:

Recommending taking antibiotics prophylactically is not appropriate for measles prevention. Measles is a viral infection, and antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral ones. Prophylactic use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and is not indicated for preventing measles.