A child received the varicella immunization. The day after the injection, the parent calls the nurse to say that the child has discomfort, slight redness, and 2 vesicles at the injection site. What instruction would be appropriate for the nurse to provide to this parent?

Question

A child received the varicella immunization.  The day after the injection, the parent calls the nurse to say that the child has discomfort, slight redness, and 2 vesicles at the injection site.  What instruction would be appropriate for the nurse to provide to this parent?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The varicella immunization is administered to prevent infection of varicella zoster, commonly known as chickenpox. Side effects of the immunization include discomfort, redness, and a few vesicles at the injection site. Covering the vesicles with clothing or a small bandage will reduce the risk of transmission from any exudate. Once the vesicles have dried, or crusted, a dressing is no longer necessary. (Option A) Acetaminophen is the appropriate medication to reduce the discomfort of the injection. Aspirin should be avoided in children due to the risk of Reye syndrome. (Option C) Unless the rash becomes widespread, isolation of the child is unnecessary. It is unlikely that the infection will be transmitted by the 2 vesicles, but covering them with clothing or a small bandage will decrease the risk of transmission. (Option D) Discomfort, redness, and a few vesicles at the injection site are common side effects of the varicella immunization and do not require the attention of an HCP. Educational objective: Discomfort, redness, and vesicles at the injection site are common side effects of the varicella immunization. Covering the vesicles with clothing or a small bandage will reduce the risk of transmission from any exudate.

A Child Received the Varicella Immunization