Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Managements of Patients with Dermatologic Problems Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Managements of Patients with Dermatologic Problems related questions and content

A nurse is planning the care of a patient with herpes zoster. What medication, if administered within the first 24 hours of the initial eruption, can arrest herpes zoster?

  • A. Prednisone (Deltasone)
  • B. Azanthioprine (Imuran)
  • C. Triamcinolone (Kenalog)
  • D. Acyclovir (Zovirax)
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Acyclovir, an antiviral, can halt herpes zoster progression if given within 24 hours of eruption. Prednisone, azathioprine, and triamcinolone are not used for herpes zoster treatment.