The nurse is teaching a client with herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 appropriate methods to prevent further spread of the virus while lesions are present. The nurse stresses that clients should
A) apply warm soaks to the lesions.
B) complete antibiotic therapy.
C) maintain separate towels and other personal items.
D) stop using condoms because they are irritating.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For avoiding autoinoculation from the genital area to other body sites, clients should be advised to wash their hands thoroughly after any contact with herpetic lesions. Infected clients should have separate towels and other personal items and should be instructed to avoid touching their eyes. Condoms should be worn even during latent periods. Warm soaks may be comforting, but do not prevent spread. Antibiotics are not used for HSV infection.

The Nurse Is Teaching a Client with Herpes Simplex Virus