A client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus asks a nurse about beginning an exercise regimen.

Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Herpes simplex is a viral infection that causes skin eruptions or lesions. To promote healing and prevent secondary infections, it is important to keep the affected area clean. Cleansing the skin eruptions with povidone-iodine, an antiseptic solution, can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

The other options are incorrect:

Over-the-counter topical ointments are generally not recommended for the treatment of herpes simplex outbreaks. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate medication and treatment options.

Herpes simplex is a viral infection, and antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like herpes simplex.

Placing disposable thermometers in the client's room is not directly related to the management of a herpes simplex outbreak. It is important to focus on interventions specific to the client's condition.

The nurse should take the following actions when receiving a telephone prescription from a client's provider:

1. Ask the provider to spell out the name of the medication: This is important to ensure accurate transcription of the medication name. Spelling out the name helps prevent errors due to similar-sounding medications or confusion with abbreviations.
2. Request that the provider confirm the read-back of the prescription: This step ensures that the nurse and the provider are on the same page and that the prescription has been accurately transcribed. It allows for verification and correction if any discrepancies are identified.
3. Record the date and time of the telephone prescription: Documenting the date and time of the telephone prescription is essential for tracking and reference purposes. It helps establish a clear timeline of events and ensures proper documentation of the medication order.

It is not necessary to withhold the medication until the provider signs the prescription, as telephone prescriptions are typically followed up with a written prescription or electronic verification.

Instructing another nurse to record the prescription in the medical record may not be necessary, as the nurse who received the telephone prescription is responsible for accurately documenting the order in the medical record. However, if necessary, the nurse can delegate the task of documentation to another qualified staff member under their supervision, ensuring accuracy and completeness.