Question

A parent of a preschool-aged client calls the clinic to report that the child has been exposed to chickenpox. The nurse informs the parent the incubation period for chickenpox is which length of time?

a. 24 hours
b. 2-4 days
c. 1 month
d. 2-3 weeks

Answer 1

The incubation period for chickenpox is 2-3 weeks. The disease is contagious before the rash appears and until all lesions have scabbed. Vaccines are available for both chickenpox and shingles prevention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The incubation period for chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is approximately 2-3 weeks. During this time, after the initial viral exposure, the virus multiplies and spreads within the host before the first symptoms appear. The individual with chickenpox becomes infectious about 2 days before the outbreak of the characteristic rash and remains contagious until all the lesions have formed scabs.

Chickenpox primarily presents with a pustular rash that starts on the face, progresses to the trunk, and can extend to the extremities, with the majority of lesions forming on the trunk. Although treatment for chickenpox in children is usually not required, antiviral medications like acyclovir can be used in more severe cases or for treating shingles, which is a reactivation of the virus later in life.

An effective vaccine is available that can prevent chickenpox, and a separate vaccine exists to reduce the risk of shingles in adults who have previously had chickenpox as children.