A client with oral cancer is receiving radiotherapy (RT) prior to surgery. Which intervention should the nurse teach the client to implement in managing mucositis related to RT?

Choice A reason: Distinguishing the difference between herpes varicella and herpes zoster is important for client education. Herpes varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles) are caused by the same virus, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues and can reactivate years later as shingles. Educating the client about the relationship between these two conditions helps in understanding the risk and nature of shingles.

Choice B reason: Explaining that the risk of developing shingles decreases with age is incorrect. In fact, the risk of developing shingles increases with age, especially in individuals over 50. The immune system's ability to keep the varicella-zoster virus dormant decreases with age, leading to a higher likelihood of reactivation as shingles. Therefore, this choice is not appropriate for client education.

Choice C reason: Affirming that a person with shingles has a history of chickenpox infection is accurate. Shingles occurs when the dormant varicella-zoster virus reactivates in someone who has previously had chickenpox. This information helps the client understand the connection between past chickenpox infection and the potential for developing shingles.

Choice D reason: Asking the client to describe the type of shingles that her brother has is not relevant to the client's own risk or education about shingles. The focus should be on providing accurate information about shingles and its relation to chickenpox, not on the details of another person's condition.

Choice E reason: Instructing the client to report the development of fatigue and low-grade fever is important because these can be early symptoms of shingles. Early identification and treatment of shingles can help manage symptoms and reduce complications. Educating the client on what to watch for and when to seek medical attention is crucial for effective management.

Choice A reason: Rubbing painful areas gently may provide temporary relief, but it is not a specific or effective long-term management strategy for Raynaud's disease. This advice could lead to further discomfort if not done correctly, and it does not address the primary trigger, which is cold exposure.

Choice B reason: Enrolling in a pain clinic can provide pain relief alternatives, but this is a general recommendation and not specific to the management of Raynaud's disease. While pain clinics can be helpful for chronic pain management, practical daily interventions are also crucial for this condition.

Choice C reason: Wearing gloves when handling cold items is a direct and practical way to prevent painful spasms associated with Raynaud's disease. This condition is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, typically triggered by cold temperatures. By wearing gloves, the client can protect their hands from cold exposure, which helps prevent these painful spasms.

Choice D reason: Return appointments for IV pain medication are not typical for managing Raynaud's disease. Pain management for Raynaud's generally focuses on preventive measures and lifestyle adjustments to avoid triggers, rather than relying on IV medications for pain relief.