A nurse in a provider's office is reinforcing teaching about skin care with a client who has a new diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus.
Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What makes you think the staff is following you?" is a confrontational approach and may not be helpful in building rapport or addressing the client's paranoid beliefs. It can come across as dismissive and may exacerbate the client's anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the client, "The psychiatric staff is not FBI. They are here to help you," is a straightforward response but may not effectively address the client's concerns or build rapport. It does not acknowledge the client's feelings and may not be well-received.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why do you feel the staff is the FBI?" is a more open-ended and therapeutic approach. It encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings, providing an opportunity for the nurse to better understand the client's perspective.

Choice D rationale:

Saying, "This must be very frightening for you. Let's talk more about it," is the most empathetic and client-centered response. It acknowledges the client's emotions and offers support. It also opens the door for further discussion and therapeutic communication, allowing the nurse to explore the client's fears and concerns in a non-confrontational manner.

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "You will no longer be infectious once you have completed a course of antibiotics," is incorrect. Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, including herpes. Antiviral medications are used for herpes management, but they do not cure the infection. The virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate.

Choice B rationale:

"You should increase fluid intake to relieve dysuria" is a correct and important piece of advice. Dysuria (painful urination) can be a symptom of genital herpes. Increasing fluid intake helps dilute urine, reducing discomfort during urination.

Choice C rationale:

"You should have the lesions drained as they appear" is incorrect. Lesion drainage is not a standard treatment for genital herpes. Antiviral medications are typically prescribed to manage outbreaks and reduce their duration and severity.

Choice D rationale:

"You should wear nylon underwear until the lesions have healed" is not the recommended guidance. Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear is generally advised for comfort and to minimize irritation during a herpes outbreak. Nylon underwear may cause friction and discomfort.