Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

Review Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank related questions and content

The single parent of a 3-year-old child who has just been diagnosed with chickenpox tells the nurse that she cannot afford to stay home with the child and miss work. The parent asks the nurse if some medication will shorten the course of the illness. Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

  • A. Reassure the parent that it is not necessary to stay home with the child.
  • B. Explain that no medication will shorten the course of the illness.
  • C. Explain the advantages of the medication acyclovir (Zovirax) to treat chickenpox.
  • D. Explain the advantages of the medication VCZ immune globulin (VariZIG) to treat chickenpox.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention in this scenario is to explain to the parent that no medication will shorten the course of chickenpox. Chickenpox is a viral illness caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and there is no specific treatment to shorten its duration. Antiviral medications like acyclovir are typically reserved for severe cases or for individuals with compromised immune systems. VCZ immune globulin (VariZIG) is used for post-exposure prophylaxis in susceptible individuals who have been exposed to chickenpox and are at high risk for severe disease.