Question

The client is diagnosed with genital herpes. Which medication is used to treat genital herpes? A. Acyclovir (Zovirax) B. Podophyllin C. AZT (Retrovir) D. Isoniazid (Lanzid)

Short answer

A. Acyclovir (Zovirax) B. Podophyllin C. AZT (Retrovir) D. Isoniazid (Lanzid) Answer: A. Acyclovir (Zovirax)

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate each answer option

Read through each of the answer choices and eliminate the options that do not treat genital herpes. A. Acyclovir (Zovirax): This is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes. B. Podophyllin: This is a plant-based substance used to treat external genital warts. C. AZT (Retrovir): This is an antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV infection. D. Isoniazid (Lanzid): This is an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis.

Compare options to question

By evaluating the options, only Acyclovir (Zovirax) is specifically used to treat genital herpes. The other options are for different diseases or conditions.

Choose the correct answer

The correct answer for this exercise is A. Acyclovir (Zovirax), as it is the medication used to treat genital herpes among the given options.

Key concepts

Herpes Simplex Virus Infection Treatment

Herpes simplex virus infection is a common condition caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes, and HSV-2, which usually results in genital herpes, though both types can affect either region. Treatment for HSV aims to reduce symptoms and decrease the risk of transmission to others.

Antiviral medications are the primary treatment for herpes infections. Acyclovir (Zovirax) is one of the most commonly prescribed antiviral drugs for treating and managing both oral and genital herpes outbreaks. It works by inhibiting viral DNA replication, effectively reducing the virus's ability to multiply. Acyclovir can be administered orally, topically, or intravenously, depending on the severity of the infection and the site of the lesions.

While there's no cure for herpes, early treatment with antiviral drugs can help to control the outbreaks. Patients are advised to start treatment as soon as they notice the first symptoms of an outbreak for the most effective relief. Alongside medications, prudent sexual practices and the use of condoms are vital in preventing the spread of genital herpes.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications play an essential role in the management of viral infections, including herpes simplex virus, influenza, and HIV. These drugs are designed to target viral replication processes and inhibit the ability of viruses to proliferate inside the body.

For HSV, medications such as Acyclovir, Valacyclovir (Valtrex), and Famciclovir (Famvir) are frequently prescribed to lessen the severity and duration of symptoms. These drugs are most effective when taken at the onset of an outbreak. They can be used episodically to treat outbreaks as they occur or taken daily as suppressive therapy to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

It's important to understand that while antiviral medications can manage and alleviate symptoms, they do not eradicate the virus from the body. Patients with herpes simplex virus need to be aware of the potential for asymptomatic viral shedding and the importance of discussing their condition with their partners.

Nursing Licensure Examination

The nursing licensure examination, commonly known as the NCLEX-RN for registered nurses, is a critical step in the process of becoming a licensed nurse. The exam tests the knowledge and skills necessary to perform safely and effectively as a newly licensed, entry-level nurse.

The exam covers a wide range of topics, including pharmacology, which is essential for safe patient care. Pharmacology encompasses the understanding of medications such as antiviral agents used in the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections. Aspiring nurses are expected to possess a solid grasp of medication indications, therapeutic effects, side effects, and proper administration.

Candidates preparing for the NCLEX-RN are encouraged to study comprehensively, focusing on areas like pharmacology, to ensure they can serve their future patients with the highest level of care. Practice questions and mock examinations can be particularly beneficial in preparing for the types of questions that will be encountered on the test.