Question

A client with a history of HSV II tells the nurse that he uses acyclovir (Zovirax) ointment daily to prevent recurrent infection. The nurse should give priority to: A. Determining when the client last had an outbreak B. Asking how many times a day he applies the ointment C. Explaining that topical acyclovir does not prevent recurrent infection D. Asking the client if he is also taking oral acyclovir

Short answer

Answer: C. Explaining that topical acyclovir does not prevent recurrent infection

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the answer choices

To select the action with the highest priority, consider the importance of each nursing action and the implications for the client: A. Determining when the client last had an outbreak: This information may be helpful to assess the frequency of outbreaks but does not directly address the client's use of acyclovir ointment. B. Asking how many times a day he applies the ointment: This question can help to assess the client's adherence to medication regimen, but it does not address the effectiveness of the ointment to prevent recurrent infection. C. Explaining that topical acyclovir does not prevent recurrent infection: This action addresses the client's misunderstanding of the medication and provides important information regarding its ineffectiveness for prevention. D. Asking the client if he is also taking oral acyclovir: While this question may reveal additional information about the client's overall treatment, it does not directly address the client's use of acyclovir ointment for prevention.

Evaluate the priority of each answer choice

By considering the importance of each nursing action and their implications for the client, it's clear that some answers are more relevant to the client's misunderstanding of acyclovir ointment use. The highest priority nursing action in this case is: C. Explaining that topical acyclovir does not prevent recurrent infection: This answer addresses the client's misunderstanding, ensuring they understand the limitations of the medication they are using to prevent recurrent infection. This knowledge helps to protect the client from future outbreaks by allowing them to explore other appropriate prevention strategies.