The nurse is teaching a client who is at risk for Bell's palsy because of previous herpes simplex infection. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
A)"Call the doctor if pain or herpes lesions occur near the ear."
B)"Treatment of herpes with antiviral agents prevents Bell's palsy."
C)"You may be able to prevent Bell's palsy by doing facial exercises regularly."
D)"Medications to treat Bell's palsy work only if started before paralysis onset."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pain or herpes lesions near the ear may indicate the onset of Bell's palsy and rapid corticosteroid treatment may reduce the duration of Bell's palsy symptoms. Antiviral therapy for herpes simplex does not reduce the risk for Bell's palsy. Corticosteroid therapy will be most effective in reducing symptoms if started before paralysis is complete but will still be somewhat effective when started later. Facial exercises do not prevent Bell's palsy.

The Nurse Is Teaching a Client Who Is at Risk