Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections ( 15 Questions)
A nurse is educating a client about herpes simplex virus infections. Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding asymptomatic shedding?
"Asymptomatic shedding occurs only in individuals with a strong immune system." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding can occur in individuals with both strong and weakened immune systems.
It is not solely dependent on immune system strength.
"Asymptomatic shedding is characterized by the presence of genital ulcers." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding refers to the period when the virus is active and can be transmitted to others, but it occurs without noticeable symptoms or genital ulcers.
"During asymptomatic shedding, the virus cannot be transmitted to others." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding is a significant concern because the virus can be transmitted to sexual partners even when the infected individual does not have visible symptoms.
The absence of symptoms does not mean the virus is not contagious.
"Some individuals may not experience symptoms but can still transmit the virus." This statement is accurate and reflects the nature of herpes simplex virus infections.
Many individuals infected with HSV may not exhibit symptoms but can still shed the virus and potentially transmit it to others through sexual contact or close personal contact.
This highlights the importance of safe practices and disclosure in intimate relationships.
Choice A rationale:
"Asymptomatic shedding occurs only in individuals with a strong immune system." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding can occur in individuals with both strong and weakened immune systems.
It is not solely dependent on immune system strength.
Choice B rationale:
"Asymptomatic shedding is characterized by the presence of genital ulcers." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding refers to the period when the virus is active and can be transmitted to others, but it occurs without noticeable symptoms or genital ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
"During asymptomatic shedding, the virus cannot be transmitted to others." This statement is incorrect.
Asymptomatic shedding is a significant concern because the virus can be transmitted to sexual partners even when the infected individual does not have visible symptoms.
The absence of symptoms does not mean the virus is not contagious.
Choice D rationale:
"Some individuals may not experience symptoms but can still transmit the virus." This statement is accurate and reflects the nature of herpes simplex virus infections.
Many individuals infected with HSV may not exhibit symptoms but can still shed the virus and potentially transmit it to others through sexual contact or close personal contact.
This highlights the importance of safe practices and disclosure in intimate relationships.