A pregnant client in the first trimester tells the clinic nurse she will be traveling to an area with a known Zika virus outbreak and expresses concern regarding disease transmission. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Zika virus is transmitted via mosquitoes, sexual contact, and infected bodily fluids. Zika causes viral symptoms (eg, low-grade fever, arthralgias) and has been shown to cause microcephaly, developmental dysfunction, and encephalitis in babies born to Zika-infected women. Women who are attempting to conceive and those who are pregnant are encouraged to avoid travel to areas affected by Zika until after birth (Option D). For clients currently living in a Zika-affected area, proper mosquito precautions (eg, insect repellant containing DEET) and safe sex practices (eg, barrier methods) should be utilized, and routine Zika testing may be provided. microcephaly (Option A) Although this statement is true, it does not provide education on avoiding Zika infection. Waiting until symptoms are present does not address preventing fetal exposure and possible birth defects. (Option B) Current guidelines recommend that pregnant women avoid travel to Zika-affected areas completely. In addition, mosquitoes are not the only mode of transmission for the virus. (Option C) Zika virus can affect women in all stages of pregnancy. Educational objective: Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause birth defects and developmental dysfunction. Current guidelines recommend that pregnant women avoid travel to Zika-affected areas.

A Pregnant Client in the First Trimester Tells the Clinic