Final answer:
To prevent spreading Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) in a newborn, a nurse should initiate contact precautions. This includes hand hygiene, use of gloves, and disinfection of surfaces and equipment.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a newborn with Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) should initiate contact precautions. HSV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids or lesions. In a hospital setting, preventing the spread of HSV requires meticulous hand hygiene, using gloves, and potentially gowns, when interacting with the patient. It is critical to clean and disinfect any surfaces and equipment that may become contaminated.
Healthcare workers must be vigilant to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus, especially in a newborn who has an immature immune system and is highly susceptible to complications from infections like HSV.