Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Chronic hepatitis is a condition where liver inflammation lasts for more than six months. If hepatitis lasts less than six months, it is referred to as acute hepatitis.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Chronic hepatitis can be caused by enveloped single-stranded RNA viruses, specifically hepatitis B and C viruses. Non-enveloped single-stranded RNA viruses, like the norovirus, can cause acute gastroenteritis, but not chronic hepatitis.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is correct. Chronic hepatitis, particularly caused by hepatitis B and C viruses, can lead to serious complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. It is essential to manage chronic hepatitis carefully to prevent these severe outcomes.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Chronic hepatitis is not primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route. Hepatitis A virus is transmitted through contaminated food or water and primarily spreads through the fecal-oral route. Hepatitis B and C viruses are commonly transmitted through blood contact, sexual contact, and from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.

Choice A rationale:

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through needle sharing, especially in the context of intravenous drug use. Contaminated needles can carry the virus from one person to another.

Choice B rationale:

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through blood transfusion if the donated blood is infected with the virus. However, routine blood screening has significantly reduced the risk of hepatitis B transmission through blood transfusions.

Choice C rationale:

Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. The virus is present in the bodily fluids, including blood and semen, making sexual transmission possible.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Hepatitis B is not typically transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis A virus is the one commonly associated with contaminated food or water.

Choice E rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Hepatitis B is not transmitted through inhaling infected air particles. It primarily spreads through blood contact and sexual contact.

Choice A rationale:

Hepatitis C is indeed caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is a single-stranded RNA virus. The virus is classified under the Flaviviridae family and is known for its high genetic variability, leading to the development of multiple genotypes and subtypes. The RNA genome of HCV is not defective, but rather highly adaptable, making it challenging to develop effective vaccines and treatments. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, sharing needles, and, less commonly, through sexual contact and from mother to child during childbirth.

Choice B rationale:

Hepatitis B (HBV) is caused by a partially double-stranded DNA virus, not a non-enveloped single-stranded RNA virus. HBV belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family, and it is transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. HBV can cause both acute and chronic liver infections.

Choice C rationale:

Hepatitis A (HAV) is caused by an enveloped single-stranded RNA virus, not hepatitis

C. HAV is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, typically due to contaminated food or water. It is usually a self-limiting disease that does not lead to chronic liver problems.

Choice D rationale:

Hepatitis E (HEV) is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus, but it is not partially double-stranded DNA, as stated in this choice. HEV is typically transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to HAV, and it can cause acute hepatitis, particularly in pregnant women, but it does not require a prior hepatitis B infection for transmission.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is accurate. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, such as sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood transfusions. However, there have been rare cases of HCV transmission through ingestion of contaminated food or water, although this is not the primary mode of transmission. The risk of acquiring HCV through food or water is significantly lower compared to hepatitis A or hepatitis

E.

Choice A rationale:

Hepatitis A (HAV) can indeed be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as the fecal-oral route. HAV is highly contagious and is commonly associated with outbreaks in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Choice B rationale:

Hepatitis B (HBV) is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, including blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of needles, and from mother to child during childbirth.

Choice D rationale:

Hepatitis E (HEV) is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to hepatitis

A. Unlike what is stated in this choice, HEV does not require a person to be already infected with hepatitis B to cause infection.

Choice D rationale:

This statement accurately differentiates between acute and chronic hepatitis. Acute hepatitis is a short-term inflammation of the liver that typically resolves within six months. It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, and C), alcohol consumption, or drug toxicity. On the other hand, chronic hepatitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the liver that persists for more than six months. Chronic hepatitis can result from ongoing viral infections (e.g., hepatitis B and C) or other causes, such as autoimmune diseases.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect. Acute hepatitis is a short-term condition that resolves within a few weeks to six months, while chronic hepatitis is the condition that can persist for an extended period.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is also incorrect. Acute hepatitis is primarily caused by viruses (e.g., hepatitis viruses), not bacteria. Chronic hepatitis is also related to viral infections, not bacterial infections.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is not accurate. Both acute and chronic hepatitis can have severe consequences, including liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis, especially when caused by hepatitis B or C viruses, can lead to the development of cirrhosis and increase the risk of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)

Choice A rationale:

Needle sharing is associated with the transmission of hepatitis C and HIV, but not hepatitis

A. Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, usually by consuming food or water contaminated with the virus. Poor sanitation, inadequate hygiene, and consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish are common factors in the spread of hepatitis

A.

Choice B rationale:

Blood transfusion is not a mode of transmission for hepatitis

A. Hepatitis A is mainly transmitted through oral-fecal contact and does not involve the exchange of blood products.

Choice C rationale:

Ingestion of contaminated food or water is the primary mode of transmission for hepatitis

A. The virus is excreted in the feces of infected individuals, and people can become infected by ingesting food or water that has been contaminated with the virus. Proper food handling, handwashing, and access to clean drinking water are essential in preventing the spread of hepatitis

A.

Choice D rationale:

Sexual contact is associated with the transmission of hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections, but it is not a significant mode of transmission for hepatitis

A. Hepatitis A is mainly spread through fecal-oral transmission and does not commonly involve sexual contact.

Choice A rationale:

Avoiding contact with infected animals is not a primary mode of transmission for hepatitis

B. Although some animal species can carry the hepatitis B virus, the primary modes of transmission in humans are through exposure to infected blood, sexual contact, and perinatal transmission from mother to child.

Choice B rationale:

Practicing safe sex with a monogamous partner is an important preventive measure for hepatitis B transmission. The virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, so using barrier methods like condoms and having a mutually monogamous relationship can reduce the risk of infection.

Choice C rationale:

Sharing personal care items with family members is not a preventive measure for hepatitis B transmission. In fact, sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors can potentially increase the risk of transmission, especially if there is any exchange of blood.

Choice D rationale:

Using intravenous drugs with a clean needle is a preventive measure for blood-borne infections like hepatitis B and C. However, it is not a preventive measure for hepatitis B transmission through sexual contact or perinatal transmission.

Choice A rationale:

Leptospirosis is a non-viral cause of hepatitis. It is caused by the bacterium Leptospira and can lead to liver inflammation. Leptospirosis is typically contracted through exposure to contaminated water, soil, or urine of infected animals.

Choice B rationale:

Malaria is not a cause of hepatitis. Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes and does not directly affect the liver in the way hepatitis does.

Choice C rationale:

Acetaminophen is a non-viral cause of hepatitis when taken in excessive amounts or in cases of overdose. Acetaminophen toxicity can lead to acute liver failure and hepatitis-like symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Autoimmune hepatitis is a non-viral cause of hepatitis. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and liver damage. The exact cause of autoimmune hepatitis is not well understood.

Choice E rationale:

Hepatitis B is a viral cause of hepatitis and is not a non-viral cause. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is transmitted through exposure to infected blood, sexual contact, or perinatal transmission from mother to child.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should expect to assess fever in a client with suspected hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A can cause flu-like symptoms, and fever is a common manifestation of the infection.

Choice C rationale:

Dark urine is another symptom the nurse should expect to assess in a client with hepatitis

A. Hepatitis A can cause jaundice, leading to dark-colored urine due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Choice D rationale:

Abdominal pain is a symptom that the nurse should anticipate in a client with hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A can cause inflammation of the liver, leading to abdominal discomfort or pain in the right upper quadrant.

Choice E rationale:

Confusion is another possible symptom in a client with hepatitis

A. Severe cases of hepatitis A can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, causing confusion, altered mental status, and even coma.

Choice C rationale:

Interferon-alpha may be prescribed for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection. It is an antiviral agent that can help boost the immune system's response to the virus and inhibit viral replication.

Choice D rationale:

Entecavir is an antiviral medication that is commonly used to treat chronic hepatitis B infection. It works by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase, thereby reducing viral replication.

Choice E rationale:

Telbivudine is another antiviral agent that may be prescribed for the treatment of chronic hepatitis

B. It works by inhibiting reverse transcriptase, an enzyme necessary for viral replication.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "Eating contaminated food can spread hepatitis C" indicates a need for further teaching. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, such as sharing needles for drug use, getting tattoos with unsterilized equipment, or through unprotected sexual contact. While it is theoretically possible to contract hepatitis C from contaminated food if it has come into contact with infected blood, it is an extremely rare mode of transmission. The nurse should clarify that the main routes of transmission are through blood-to-blood contact.

Choice A rationale:

The client's statement, "I will take pegylated interferon-alpha as the antiviral agent," demonstrates understanding of the treatment regimen for chronic hepatitis

D. Pegylated interferon-alpha is the recommended antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis

D. It helps suppress viral replication and reduce liver inflammation, which is essential in managing the disease. Interferon therapy can be used alone or in combination with antiviral agents like lamivudine or adefovir. However, it is crucial to note that interferon therapy may have side effects, and the client should be educated about them.

Choice B rationale:

"I will use ribavirin to suppress viral replication" is incorrect. Ribavirin is an antiviral agent used for the treatment of hepatitis C but is not typically recommended for hepatitis

D. The primary antiviral therapy for hepatitis D is pegylated interferon-alpha.

Choice C rationale:

"I need to continue the treatment for a shorter duration than hepatitis B or C" is incorrect. The treatment duration for chronic hepatitis D is generally longer than that for hepatitis B or

C. The therapy may last for six months to a year or even longer, depending on the individual response to treatment and the level of liver damage.

Choice D rationale:

"The goal of treatment is to achieve undetectable HDV RNA after the treatment ends" is incorrect. While achieving undetectable HDV RNA is a favorable outcome, it may not always be achievable with current therapies. The primary goal of treatment is to suppress viral replication, reduce liver inflammation, and slow down the progression of liver disease.

Choice A rationale:

Prioritizing hydration is essential in the care of a client with hepatitis E infection. Hepatitis E is transmitted through contaminated water and can cause dehydration due to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Hydration helps maintain fluid balance and supports overall recovery.

Choice C rationale:

Pain relief is crucial for managing symptoms associated with hepatitis E infection. The client may experience abdominal pain and discomfort, and providing appropriate pain relief measures can enhance their comfort during the recovery period.

Choice D rationale:

Nutrition support is vital in the care of a client with hepatitis E infection. The disease can cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, leading to malnutrition. Providing adequate nutrition helps support the immune system and aids in the healing process.

Choice E rationale:

Antipyretics may be necessary for managing fever, which is a common symptom of hepatitis

E. Controlling fever can help improve the client's comfort and prevent complications associated with high body temperature.

Choice B rationale:

Antiviral therapy is not a standard treatment for hepatitis E infection. In most cases, the infection is self-limiting and resolves on its own without specific antiviral medications.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to rest and limit physical activity is an essential nursing intervention for a client with acute hepatitis

A. Rest is crucial for liver recovery and reducing the risk of complications. Physical activity can put additional stress on the liver and may worsen symptoms. The client should avoid alcohol and any medications that can potentially harm the liver during this period.

Choice A rationale:

Isolating the client in a negative pressure room is not necessary for acute hepatitis

A. Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, and standard precautions are sufficient to prevent its spread. Negative pressure rooms are usually reserved for clients with airborne infections, such as tuberculosis.

Choice C rationale:

Administering live attenuated hepatitis A vaccine is not indicated for a client with acute hepatitis

A. The vaccine is used for pre-exposure prophylaxis and is not effective in treating an active infection.

Choice D rationale:

Providing antiviral medications to treat the infection is not a standard intervention for acute hepatitis

A. Antiviral therapy is generally reserved for chronic hepatitis B and C infections and is not effective for acute hepatitis A, which usually resolves on its own with supportive care.

Choice A rationale:

Elevated HCV RNA levels indicate ongoing active viral replication and are not indicative of an effective response to antiviral therapy. The goal of antiviral therapy is to suppress viral replication, leading to decreased or undetectable HCV RNA levels.

Choice B rationale:

Presence of anti-HCV antibodies is a marker of past or current exposure to hepatitis C virus. While it indicates the client's immune response to the virus, it does not provide information about the effectiveness of antiviral therapy in suppressing viral replication.

Choice C rationale:

Detectable HCV core antigen suggests the presence of the virus but does not provide information about viral replication or the effectiveness of antiviral therapy in reducing viral load.

Choice D rationale:

Undetectable HCV RNA 12 weeks after treatment is considered a sustained virological response (SVR) and indicates an effective response to antiviral therapy. SVR means that the virus is undetectable in the blood even after the completion of treatment, which indicates successful viral clearance.

Choice A rationale:

Cirrhosis is a late-stage complication of chronic liver disease and is not directly related to hepatitis E during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale:

Encephalopathy is a neurological complication of liver disease, but it is not specific to hepatitis E during pregnancy.

Choice C rationale:

Fetal death is a significant complication of hepatitis E during pregnancy. Pregnant women with hepatitis E have an increased risk of severe outcomes, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death. Close monitoring of fetal well-being is essential in these cases.

Choice D rationale:

Liver cancer is not a common complication of acute hepatitis E during pregnancy.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring vital signs and mental status is crucial in patients with suspected hepatitis as they may develop complications such as hepatic encephalopathy, which can lead to changes in mental status.

Choice B rationale:

Administering prescribed medications and fluids is important to support the patient's liver function and manage symptoms of hepatitis. Antiviral medications may be used to treat certain types of viral hepatitis.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about hepatitis vaccines is not applicable in a patient with suspected hepatitis since vaccines are used for prevention and are not effective in treating an ongoing infection.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the patient to engage in high-impact exercise is not recommended in patients with suspected hepatitis, as strenuous physical activity may worsen hepatic injury or lead to complications.

Choice E rationale:

Implementing infection control measures to prevent transmission is crucial in suspected hepatitis cases, as the disease can spread through contact with contaminated blood or body fluids. Standard precautions should be followed to prevent healthcare-associated infections and protect others from contracting the virus.

Choice A rationale:

Fatigue is a common side effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. The medications used to treat hepatitis C can cause general fatigue and tiredness in some patients. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of increased fatigue and address any concerns.

Choice D rationale:

Muscle aches are another possible side effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Some patients may experience muscle pain or discomfort while on these medications. The nurse should assess the client for muscle aches and provide appropriate interventions if necessary.

Choice E rationale:

Blurred vision can occur as a side effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Some medications used in the treatment of hepatitis C can affect vision in some patients. The nurse should be vigilant in monitoring the client's visual acuity and report any changes to the healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale:

Insomnia is not a common side effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. While some individuals may experience sleep disturbances due to the stress of managing a chronic condition, insomnia is not directly related to the antiviral medications used in hepatitis C treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Headache is not a typical side effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Headaches may occur for various reasons, but they are not directly associated with the medications used to treat hepatitis

C.

Choice A rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs is appropriate because in hepatitis A, the liver is already inflamed and compromised. Alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs can further damage the liver and impede the healing process. It is essential to protect the liver from further harm during recovery.

Choice B rationale:

The patient has hepatitis A, not hepatitis C, so there is no need for the hepatitis C vaccine. The hepatitis A vaccine is available for prevention, not the hepatitis C vaccine.

Choice C rationale:

While monitoring liver function is essential for individuals with liver disease, this statement is not specifically relevant to the patient with hepatitis

A. Monitoring liver function is more critical for chronic liver diseases like hepatitis B and C.

Choice D rationale:

Antiviral therapy is not indicated for hepatitis A since the infection usually resolves on its own. This statement is not appropriate for the patient with hepatitis

A.

Choice A rationale:

Getting vaccinated with the hepatitis B vaccine is an effective prevention strategy for hepatitis

B. It helps protect the individual from acquiring the virus and developing the disease. Vaccination is crucial, especially for individuals at risk of exposure to the virus, such as healthcare workers, sexually active individuals, and household contacts of infected individuals.

Choice B rationale:

Drinking alcohol occasionally is not a safe practice for individuals with hepatitis

B. Alcohol can further damage the liver and worsen the condition. Avoiding alcohol entirely is essential to protect the liver and promote healing.

Choice C rationale:

Clearance of infection does not confer immunity to hepatitis

B. The patient should still take precautions to prevent potential reinfection through sexual contact or other means.

Choice D rationale:

Screening blood donors and recipients for HBV infection is necessary to prevent the transmission of the virus through blood transfusions. It is a crucial safety measure to ensure that blood and blood products are free from hepatitis B virus and other infectious agents.

Choice A rationale:

Fulminant hepatitis is a severe and life-threatening complication of hepatitis E, particularly in pregnant women. It can lead to liver failure, and timely monitoring is crucial to detect any early signs of deterioration in the patient's condition. Pregnant women with hepatitis E require close observation and frequent assessment of liver function to ensure prompt intervention if needed.

Choice B rationale:

Administering hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is not the priority in managing a patient with hepatitis

E. Hepatitis E is caused by a different virus (hepatitis E virus) and is not effectively prevented by hepatitis B immunoglobulin.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about the benefits of hepatitis C vaccine is not relevant to the care of a patient with hepatitis

E. These are two different types of viral hepatitis, caused by distinct viruses (hepatitis C virus and hepatitis E virus), and each requires specific management.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact until cleared of infection is important in some cases, but it is not the priority intervention for a patient with hepatitis

E. The primary concern in hepatitis E is monitoring for complications, especially in pregnant women, as discussed in choice A rationale.

A.

Choice A rationale:

Choice A is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine provides active immunity, not passive immunity. Active immunity means that the body produces its antibodies in response to the vaccine, providing long-term protection against the virus.

Choice B rationale:

The hepatitis A vaccine is indeed recommended for travelers to areas with high prevalence of hepatitis

A. It helps protect travelers from acquiring the virus through contaminated food and water in regions where hepatitis A is more common.

Choice C rationale:

Choice C is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine is effective in preventing hepatitis A in close contacts of infected individuals. Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure for those who are in close contact with infected individuals, as it can help halt the spread of the virus.

Choice D rationale:

Choice D is incorrect because the hepatitis A vaccine is not given within 12 hours of birth to newborns of hepatitis A positive mothers. The vaccination schedule for hepatitis A vaccine varies depending on the country's recommendations but is typically given starting at 12-23 months of age.

Choice A rationale:

While visual disturbances can occur as side effects of some medications, it is not the priority education for a patient undergoing antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Visual disturbances are not common or specific to antiviral therapy.

Choice B rationale:

Choice B is the correct answer because it is essential to educate the patient about avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs during antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. Alcohol and certain medications can worsen liver function and interfere with the effectiveness of antiviral treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for a high-protein diet during treatment is not a priority in antiviral therapy for hepatitis

C. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, there is no specific requirement for a high-protein diet during antiviral treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the patient to engage in strenuous physical activities to alleviate fatigue is not the priority education for a patient undergoing antiviral therapy. Strenuous physical activities might be counterproductive, as the patient may experience fatigue as a side effect of the therapy. Instead, the focus should be on adequate rest and moderate exercise.

Choice A rationale:

The administration of the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is an appropriate intervention for suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is a defective virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B to replicate, so administering the hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis D infection in exposed contacts. HBIG contains antibodies against hepatitis B, which can provide temporary protection to exposed contacts.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact or use condoms until cleared of infection is crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis D. The virus can be transmitted through blood and sexual contact, so precautionary measures are essential.

Choice C rationale:

The availability and benefits of the hepatitis D vaccine for prevention should be communicated to the patient. Currently, there is no specific treatment for hepatitis D infection, and vaccination is the most effective preventive measure.

Choice D rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is essential in managing hepatitis D. Hepatitis D can lead to severe liver complications, and monitoring liver function and viral load helps in evaluating disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

Choice E rationale:

Disinfecting contaminated surfaces or instruments with bleach or autoclave is not directly related to the care of a patient with suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is primarily transmitted through blood and sexual contact, not through contaminated surfaces or instruments.