Question

The nurse is caring for a client with herpes zoster. Which medication is used to shorten the outbreak of herpes zoster? A. Amevive (alefacept) B. Folex (methotrexate) C. Famvir (famciclovir) D. Raptiva (efalizumab)

Short answer

Answer: C. Famvir (famciclovir)

Step-by-step solution

Identify the given options

The exercise provides four medications to choose from: A. Amevive (alefacept) B. Folex (methotrexate) C. Famvir (famciclovir) D. Raptiva (efalizumab)

Research on herpes zoster and medications

Before determining which medication is used to shorten the outbreak of herpes zoster, it's essential to understand what herpes zoster is. Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Review each medication

Now, let's review each medication to determine which one is used for herpes zoster: A. Amevive (alefacept): This is a medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is not used for herpes zoster. B. Folex (methotrexate): This is a chemotherapy drug used to treat cancer, autoimmune disorders, and ectopic pregnancies. It is not used for herpes zoster. C. Famvir (famciclovir): Famvir is an antiviral medication used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. Famciclovir works by stopping the growth of the herpes virus and helps the body fight the infection. D. Raptiva (efalizumab): This medication is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, not for herpes zoster.

Choose the correct option

Based on the information gathered in step 3, the correct option is: C. Famvir (famciclovir): This medication is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles.

Key concepts

Herpes Zoster Treatment

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. This condition often presents a painful rash, usually coupled with blisters. Once the chickenpox infection resolves, the virus remains dormant in the nerve tissues and can reactivate years later as shingles. Effective management involves prompt treatment to alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of the outbreak.
Antiviral medications are the cornerstone of herpes zoster treatment. They help in minimizing complications and speed up recovery. Early administration, preferably within 72 hours of the rash appearing, is crucial. Famciclovir, valacyclovir, and acyclovir are commonly prescribed antiviral drugs that serve this purpose. They work by inhibiting virus replication, thus shortening the infection's course.
Additional treatments for symptomatic relief can include pain management strategies using analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes corticosteroids in severe cases. Vaccination with the shingles vaccine is also recommended for adults over 50 to prevent herpes zoster occurrences.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications play a pivotal role in treating viral infections like herpes zoster. These medications are specifically designed to target and inhibit the replication of viruses, reducing their spread in the body.
Famciclovir, the highlighted medication in the exercise, is one of the effective antiviral drugs used to manage herpes zoster. Famciclovir is known for treating a variety of infections caused by herpes viruses. Its primary action mechanism is to halt viral DNA synthesis, stopping the virus from multiplying in the host cells.

Other frequently used antiviral drugs for herpes zoster include:

• Acyclovir: One of the earliest antiviral medications developed and still widely used. It is often prescribed in both oral and topical forms.
• Valacyclovir: A derivative of acyclovir that offers improved absorption, making it a preferred choice for many clinicians.

These medications not only help in clearing the infection more rapidly but also reduce the probability of complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia, a persistent pain condition often associated with shingles.

Nursing Pharmacology

Nursing pharmacology encompasses a wide knowledge of how different medications work, their uses, potential side effects, and how they interact with the human body. It plays a critical role in patient care and treatment outcomes. Understanding pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics is essential for nurses to administer drugs safely and effectively.
When dealing with viral infections like herpes zoster, nurses need to be vigilant about the appropriate administration of antiviral medications. This includes familiarizing themselves with indications, dosing schedules, and possible drug interactions.
Moreover, patient education is a significant aspect of nursing pharmacology. Nurses educate patients about their condition, the importance of starting antiviral treatment early, and potential medication side effects. They also manage pain and other symptoms associated with conditions like shingles, ensuring comprehensive care beyond just medication management.
Nurses also perform assessments and monitor patients for therapeutic effectiveness and adverse reactions, adjusting care plans as necessary, and serving as an integral link between the patient and the health care team.

NCLEX Preparation

Preparing for the NCLEX-PN exam requires a good grasp of various subjects, including pharmacology, which is key in multiple test questions. Focusing on core areas like medication administration, mechanism of action, and patient education can greatly enhance nursing students' readiness for the examination.
Understanding pharmacology questions often involves applying knowledge to scenario-based questions. An example, like determining the medication suitable for herpes zoster treatment, requires understanding both the condition and the available treatments.
To efficiently prepare for the NCLEX-PN, consider:

• Engaging with practice questions to apply pharmacology concepts in different contexts.
• Using study aids that highlight typical drug categories and their uses.
• Creating summary notes that help revise quickly before the exam.

Additionally, participating in study groups can be beneficial, as discussing various scenarios with peers often reveals diverse perspectives and solutions. Regular review and consistent practice are paramount to mastering the NCLEX-PN exam basics and specifics.