The labor nurse is admitting a patient in active labor with a history of genital herpes. On assessment, the patient reports a recent outbreak, and the nurse verifies lesions on the perineum. What is the nurse's next action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A cesarean birth is recommended for women with active lesions in the genital area, whether recurrent or primary, at the time of labor. The patient's dietary intake is needed to prepare for surgery. This patient is in active labor and the fetus is at risk for infection if the membranes rupture. The health care provider needs to be notified, and a cesarean birth needs to be performed as soon as possible. There is no need to validate the infection because the patient is well aware of the symptoms of an active infection. Although transmission to sexual partners is valid information, it is not necessary information in an urgent situation such as depicted in this scenario. Electronic fetal surveillance is the standard of care.

The Labor Nurse Is Admitting a Patient in Active Labor