Four weeks after returning from a tropical vacation, a 40-year-old man has presented to the emergency department with malaise, nausea, and "yellow eyes." Serology has confirmed a diagnosis of hepatitis A (HAV), to the shock of the client. What teaching is most appropriate for this client?
A) "You can expect these symptoms to disappear after about 2 months, but you'll be a carrier of the disease indefinitely."
B) "A vaccine before your trip would have prevented this, but be assured your body will rid itself of the virus in time."
C) "You likely came in contact with blood or body fluids at some point, and you'll have to ensure no one is subsequently exposed to your own blood or body fluids."
D) "You likely got this by way of what we call the 'fecal-oral' route; you will have chronic hepatitis now, but the symptoms can be controlled with medication."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

HAV is normally self-limiting and does not result in chronic hepatitis or carrier status. A vaccine is available, and the fecal-oral route of transmission, rather than contact with blood and body fluids, is typical.

Four Weeks After Returning from a Tropical Vacation, a 40-Year-Old