A nurse is educating a group of patients about hepatitis prevention. Which statement by the nurse is accurate?

Choice C rationale:

This statement is accurate. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to infected blood, such as sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood transfusions. However, there have been rare cases of HCV transmission through ingestion of contaminated food or water, although this is not the primary mode of transmission. The risk of acquiring HCV through food or water is significantly lower compared to hepatitis A or hepatitis

E.

Choice A rationale:

Hepatitis A (HAV) can indeed be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as the fecal-oral route. HAV is highly contagious and is commonly associated with outbreaks in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Choice B rationale:

Hepatitis B (HBV) is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, including blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of needles, and from mother to child during childbirth.

Choice D rationale:

Hepatitis E (HEV) is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, similar to hepatitis

A. Unlike what is stated in this choice, HEV does not require a person to be already infected with hepatitis B to cause infection.

Choice A rationale:

The administration of the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed contacts is an appropriate intervention for suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is a defective virus that requires the presence of hepatitis B to replicate, so administering the hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis D infection in exposed contacts. HBIG contains antibodies against hepatitis B, which can provide temporary protection to exposed contacts.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid sexual contact or use condoms until cleared of infection is crucial in preventing the spread of hepatitis D. The virus can be transmitted through blood and sexual contact, so precautionary measures are essential.

Choice C rationale:

The availability and benefits of the hepatitis D vaccine for prevention should be communicated to the patient. Currently, there is no specific treatment for hepatitis D infection, and vaccination is the most effective preventive measure.

Choice D rationale:

Educating the patient about the need for regular monitoring of liver function and viral load is essential in managing hepatitis D. Hepatitis D can lead to severe liver complications, and monitoring liver function and viral load helps in evaluating disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

Choice E rationale:

Disinfecting contaminated surfaces or instruments with bleach or autoclave is not directly related to the care of a patient with suspected hepatitis D infection. Hepatitis D is primarily transmitted through blood and sexual contact, not through contaminated surfaces or instruments.