Question

A patient who is diagnosed with genital herpes is taking topical acyclovir. The nurse will provide which teaching for this patient?

a. "Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying this medicine."
b. "Apply this ointment until the lesion stops hurting."
c. "Use a clean glove when applying this ointment."
d. "If your partner develops these lesions, then he can also use the medication."
e. "You will need to avoid touching the area around your eyes."
f. "You will have to practice abstinence when these lesions are active."

Answer 1

The nurse should provide the patient with genital herpes important teaching, such as washing hands and avoiding touching the eyes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse will provide the teaching for the patient with genital herpes that they should wash their hands thoroughly before and after applying this medicine. This is important to prevent the spread of the virus to other parts of the body or to other people. The patient should also be instructed to use a clean glove when applying the ointment to further minimize the risk of transmission. It is essential for the patient to avoid touching the area around their eyes to prevent the virus from spreading to the eyes, which can cause serious complications.