Author Question: Which topics will the nurse include when preparing to teach a patient with recurrent genital herpes ... (Read 74 times)

audie · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

Which topics will the nurse include when preparing to teach a patient with recurrent genital herpes simplex (select all that apply)?

a. Infected areas should be kept moist to speed healing.
b. Sitz baths may be used to relieve discomfort caused by the lesions.
c. Genital herpes can be cured by consistent use of antiviral medications.
d. Recurrent genital herpes episodes usually are shorter than the first episode.
e. The virus can infect sexual partners even when you do not have symptoms of infection.

Question 2

A 39-year-old patient with a history of IV drug use is seen at a community clinic. The patient reports difficulty walking, stating I don't know where my feet are.

Diagnostic screening reveals positive Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) and fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-Abs) tests. Based on the patient history, what will the nurse assess (select all that apply)?
a. Heart sounds
b. Genitalia for lesions
c. Joints for swelling and inflammation
d. Mental state for judgment and orientation
e. Skin and mucous membranes for gummas

essyface1 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, D, E
Patients are taught that shedding of the virus and infection of sexual partners can occur even in asymptomatic periods, that recurrent episodes resolve more quickly, and that sitz baths can be used to relieve pain caused by the lesions. Antiviral medications decrease the number of outbreaks, but do not cure herpes simplex infections. Infected areas may be kept dry if this decreases pain and itching.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, D, E
The patient's clinical manifestations and laboratory tests are consistent with tertiary syphilis. Valvular insufficiency, gummas, and changes in mentation are other clinical manifestations of this stage.