(Quoted statement) A client with shingles asks the nurse about the best way to manage pain. Which response by the nurse is accurate?
"Apply corticosteroids topically to reduce inflammation.”
"Use over-the-counter antibiotics to prevent secondary infection.”
"Start antiviral drugs within 72 hours of rash onset.”
"Consider topical capsaicin for neuropathic pain relief.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Topical corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation in various skin conditions, but they are not the best option for managing pain associated with shingles (herpes zoster) Corticosteroids primarily target inflammation and do not provide effective pain relief in neuropathic pain, which is characteristic of shingles.
Choice B rationale:
Antibiotics are not useful for managing the pain caused by shingles. Shingles is a viral infection, not a bacterial one, so antibiotics would not be effective in reducing pain or preventing secondary infection.
Choice C rationale:
Starting antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, within 72 hours of rash onset is essential for managing shingles. These medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness and may also decrease the risk of developing complications like postherpetic neuralgia.
Choice D rationale:
Topical capsaicin is an appropriate option for neuropathic pain relief in shingles. Capsaicin, derived from chili peppers, works by desensitizing the nerve endings and reducing pain signals. However, it may cause a burning sensation initially, and the client should be advised on proper application and hand hygiene afterward.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should not advise the patient to apply iodine, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol to the wound. These substances can be irritating to the wound and delay the healing process.
Choice B rationale:
Cleaning and debriding the wound as soon as possible is an essential action to prevent infection and promote healing. Removing debris and foreign material from the wound reduces the risk of contamination and infection.
Choice C rationale:
Using non-sterile instruments for wound care is not appropriate. The nurse should emphasize the importance of using clean and sterile instruments to prevent introducing additional bacteria into the wound.
Choice D rationale:
Administering the Td vaccine (Tetanus and Diphtheria) for prophylaxis is a crucial action to protect the patient from tetanus, especially in contaminated wounds where tetanus spores might be present.
Choice E rationale:
Proper disposal of animal feces is crucial to avoid exposure to tetanus spores. Tetanus spores can be found in soil contaminated with animal feces and can enter the body through open wounds, leading to a serious and potentially fatal infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Correct) Excluding infected individuals from school or work until all lesions are crusted over is an important measure in preventing the spread of chickenpox. This helps to reduce the risk of transmission to others.
Choice B rationale:
(Correct) Practicing good hand hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. Regular handwashing helps reduce the likelihood of virus transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces or infected individuals.
Choice C rationale:
(Incorrect) Sharing personal items such as towels with infected individuals can increase the risk of spreading the virus. It is crucial for the nurse to discourage such practices during the community class.
Choice D rationale:
(Incorrect) While reporting cases of chickenpox or shingles to local health authorities is important for surveillance purposes, it is not a preventive measure for individual protection.
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