Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections ( 15 Questions)
A client is receiving treatment for herpes simplex virus infection. The nurse is educating the client about the prescribed antiviral medications.
Which statement by the client indicates a correct understanding of the treatment?
"I should apply topical creams to the affected areas for pain relief." While topical creams can provide pain relief for the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection, they do not address the root cause of the infection.
Antiviral medications are essential to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and to prevent viral shedding and transmission.
"I can skip doses of the antiviral medication if I start feeling better." This statement is incorrect.
Skipping doses of antiviral medication can lead to the virus becoming resistant to the medication and may result in a recurrence of symptoms.
It is crucial for the client to take the antiviral medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
"I should take my antiviral medication as prescribed to reduce symptoms." This statement indicates a correct understanding of the treatment for herpes simplex virus infection.
It emphasizes the importance of adherence to the prescribed antiviral medication regimen to manage and reduce symptoms effectively.
"I can rely on hydration alone to manage my symptoms." Hydration is essential for overall health, but it cannot replace antiviral medication in the management of herpes simplex virus infection.
Antiviral medications are specific treatments that target the virus, while hydration addresses general well-being.
Choice A rationale:
"I should apply topical creams to the affected areas for pain relief." While topical creams can provide pain relief for the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection, they do not address the root cause of the infection.
Antiviral medications are essential to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and to prevent viral shedding and transmission.
Choice B rationale:
"I can skip doses of the antiviral medication if I start feeling better." This statement is incorrect.
Skipping doses of antiviral medication can lead to the virus becoming resistant to the medication and may result in a recurrence of symptoms.
It is crucial for the client to take the antiviral medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale:
"I should take my antiviral medication as prescribed to reduce symptoms." This statement indicates a correct understanding of the treatment for herpes simplex virus infection.
It emphasizes the importance of adherence to the prescribed antiviral medication regimen to manage and reduce symptoms effectively.
Choice D rationale:
"I can rely on hydration alone to manage my symptoms." Hydration is essential for overall health, but it cannot replace antiviral medication in the management of herpes simplex virus infection.
Antiviral medications are specific treatments that target the virus, while hydration addresses general well-being.