Which of the following is a priority intervention to provide comfort for the child with pruritus associated with varicella zoster virus?

A. Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is characterized by high blood pressure that does not have a known secondary cause. It accounts for the majority of hypertension cases and is thought to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
B. While treatment is important for all forms of hypertension to prevent complications, this statement is somewhat misleading. The term "essential" in primary hypertension refers to the lack of a specific identifiable cause, not that it is necessarily more critical to treat than other forms of hypertension.
C. This definition describes secondary hypertension, not primary hypertension. Secondary hypertension results from an identifiable underlying condition, such as kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
D. Primary hypertension can vary in severity, but it is not exclusively severe or life-threatening. While uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications, primary hypertension itself does not automatically imply a critical state.

A. While calamine lotion can be soothing and help alleviate itching, applying a thick coat over open lesions is not advisable. It may not allow the skin to breathe and can potentially lead to further irritation or infection. Therefore, while this option has some merit, it is not the priority intervention.
B. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help relieve itching. This option can be beneficial for managing pruritus and may help the child sleep better. However, while it can be useful, there are other interventions that can provide immediate comfort more effectively.
C. Applying a cool cloth to the rash is an immediate and effective way to provide comfort and relieve itching. The coolness can soothe inflamed skin and reduce the urge to scratch, which helps prevent secondary infections.
D. While giving ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce fever and discomfort associated with varicella, it does not specifically address pruritus. These medications are helpful for pain management but are not the best choice for alleviating itching directly.