Question

A client recovering from hepatitis A asks the nurse about returning to work. How would the nurse respond?

A. "As soon as you're feeling less tired, you may go back to work."
B. "Unfortunately, few people fully recover from hepatitis in less than 6 months."
C. "Gradually increase your activities because relapses may occur in those who return to full activity too soon."
D. "You cannot return to work for 6 months because the virus will still be in your stools, and you still are communicable."

Answer 1

The nurse should advise the patient to gradually increase activities to avoid relapse rather than waiting due to infectiousness, as hepatitis A does not typically result in a chronic state or lengthy period of communicability post-recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proper response to a client recovering from hepatitis A asking about returning to work would be:

C. "Gradually increase your activities because relapses may occur in those who return to full activity too soon."

Hepatitis A is often a short-term infection and does not become chronic. However, post-infection, patients can experience fatigue and should cautiously resume activities to avoid relapse.

Following recovery from hepatitis A, individuals are not infectious and can return to work once they feel able. The concern with returning to work too quickly is primarily due to the potential for relapse and fatigue, rather than the risk of transmitting the virus to others.