Adult Health Nursing Test Bank Related

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A patient presents with a painful, vesicular rash following a linear pattern on the left forearm. The patient reports a history of gardening without gloves. Which of the following conditions is most likely responsible for this presentation?

  • A. Allergic contact dermatitis
  • B. Herpes simplex virus infection
  • C. Scabies
  • D. Poison ivy dermatitis
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Herpes simplex virus infection. The presentation of a painful, vesicular rash following a linear pattern on the left forearm is characteristic of herpes simplex virus infection, specifically herpes zoster (shingles). The linear pattern is due to the virus following a specific nerve pathway. This is different from the other choices - A: Allergic contact dermatitis typically presents as a diffuse rash at the site of contact with an allergen, not a linear pattern. C: Scabies presents with burrows and papules, not vesicles in a linear pattern. D: Poison ivy dermatitis causes a diffuse rash, not a linear vesicular rash.