The nurse is providing education for an immunosuppressed patient with recurrent oral herpes simplex lesions (cold sores) who is being treated with topical acyclovir ointment. Which of the following statements would be included in the nurse's teaching? Select all that apply.
A) "Apply the ointment every 3 hr each day for 7 days."
B) "Other topical ointments should be avoided as they may cause the lesions to spread or worsen."
C) "This medication should cure the lesions and recurrence is rare."
D) "You should wear a glove when applying the ointment to prevent spreading."
E) "You cannot eat or drink for 2 hr after application."
F) "There are no activity restrictions while you are taking this medication."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A) The patient should be instructed to apply the ointment every 3 hours for 7 days as prescribed.
B) Other topical ointments should be avoided as they can worsen the lesions or cause them to spread.
C) The medication will not cure the lesions and recurrence is common in immunosuppressed patients.
D) Wearing gloves during application can prevent spreading of the virus to other areas of the body or to others.
E) There are no restrictions on eating or drinking after application.
F) The patient should avoid kissing, sharing personal items, and engaging in oral sex during an outbreak to prevent transmission to others.

The Nurse Is Providing Education for an Immunosuppressed Patient with Recurrent