Question

When can a child with varicella return to school, according to the nurse's response?

a. When the lesions no longer itch.
b. Three days after the lesions appeared.
c. When crusts have formed on every lesion.
d. When the lesions disappear.

Answer 1

A child with chickenpox can return to school when crusts have formed on every lesion, indicating the end of the infectious period.

Step-by-step explanation:

A child with varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, can return to school according to the nurse's response when crusts have formed on every lesion (option c). This is because individuals with chickenpox are infectious until all the lesions have scabbed over, which prevents the spread of the virus to others. The varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, results in a pustular rash that develops on the face, progresses to the trunk, and then to the extremities. The formation of crusty scabs signifies the end of the infectious period.