The nurse is teaching self-care management to a client experiencing an outbreak of genital herpes. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

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11ecbb05_ca4e_91b5_b433_015fa80e39df_MD0009_00 Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is usually associated with genital herpes. Lesions are painful and appear as multiple small, vesicular lesions. Management strategies focus on disease spread, including autoinoculation (eg, fingers) and pain relief, and include: Avoid sexual activity when lesions are present as the virus spreads through contact with the lesion; barrier contraception is not sufficient during an outbreak (Option A). After the outbreak has resolved, condoms should be used in future sexual encounters as transmission is possible even in the absence of active lesions. Keep the area with lesions clean and dry. Avoid use of perfumed soaps and bubble baths. Maintain proper hand hygiene and avoid touching the lesions to prevent spreading. Use sitz baths and oatmeal baths to provide comfort and relief of itching and burning. (Option B) Vesicles contain numerous virus particles, leading to the possibility of self-inoculation. This can be prevented by avoidance of hand contact with lesions during an outbreak. (Option C) Use of a hair dryer on a cool setting is an effective means of drying the lesions and promoting client comfort. (Option D) Warm water provides symptomatic relief. Mild soap containing no perfumes reduces the risk of irritation to the area. Educational objective: Clients experiencing an outbreak of genital herpes should abstain from sexual activity when lesions are present and use condoms in future sexual encounters as transmission is possible even in the absence of active lesions.

The Nurse Is Teaching Self-Care Management to a Client Experiencing