Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections ( 15 Questions)
A nurse is providing care to a client with herpes simplex virus infection. Which nursing interventions are appropriate for this client? (Select all that apply)
"Administering antibiotics to treat the viral infection." This choice is incorrect because antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like herpes simplex virus.
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viruses.
"Encouraging the client to stay hydrated." Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate the discomfort associated with the condition.
"Counseling the client for emotional support." Emotional support is crucial for clients dealing with herpes simplex virus infection, as it can be emotionally distressing.
Counseling can help clients cope with the psychological impact of the diagnosis and reduce stress.
"Collecting specimens for viral cultures." Collecting specimens for viral cultures is appropriate for confirming the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps identify the specific strain of the virus and can guide treatment decisions.
"Applying topical creams to alleviate pain and promote healing." While applying topical creams can help alleviate pain and promote healing of lesions caused by herpes simplex virus infection, it does not involve nursing interventions.
It is typically part of the treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Choice A rationale:
"Administering antibiotics to treat the viral infection." This choice is incorrect because antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like herpes simplex virus.
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not viruses.
Choice B rationale:
"Encouraging the client to stay hydrated." Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage the symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate the discomfort associated with the condition.
Choice C rationale:
"Counseling the client for emotional support." Emotional support is crucial for clients dealing with herpes simplex virus infection, as it can be emotionally distressing.
Counseling can help clients cope with the psychological impact of the diagnosis and reduce stress.
Choice D rationale:
"Collecting specimens for viral cultures." Collecting specimens for viral cultures is appropriate for confirming the diagnosis of herpes simplex virus infection.
It helps identify the specific strain of the virus and can guide treatment decisions.
Choice E rationale:
"Applying topical creams to alleviate pain and promote healing." While applying topical creams can help alleviate pain and promote healing of lesions caused by herpes simplex virus infection, it does not involve nursing interventions.
It is typically part of the treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider.