Nursing 213

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide

Signs and symptoms of herpes zoster/shingles: • Severe pain in trunk/shoulders • Post-herpetic neuralgia • Fever • Headache • Rash on trunk and/or face Nursing assessment for varicella/shingles: • Head to toe general assessment o Symptoms o Temperature o Skin assessment o Pain level • History of exposure to the virus • Vaccination or history of previous infection • Review laboratory reports o Titer for previous varicella infection o Wound cultures Nursing diagnosis for varicella/shingles: •

Blistering that opens and crusts Joint pain and aches Fatigue

• • • •

Itching

Risk for altered body temperature related to the varicella virus • Increased pain related to inflammation of nerves • At risk for skin breakdown related to ruptured lesions • Knowledge deficit related to immunizations Nursing interventions for varicella/shingles: • Provide antipyretics for fever; never use aspirin products on children and young adults • Provide skin care and education not to scratch lesions; make sure nails are trimmed • Encourage increased rest • Provide antiviral medications per MDorder: o Zovirax: This drug is used to help reduce the effects of the virus in the body. It does not work like an antibiotic, but instead works with the immune system. Side effects include pain in the lower back, difficulty urinating, easy bruising, and weakness. o Valtrex: This medication can help decrease itching and pain and help the body fight the herpes virus. Side effects include headache, GI upset, diarrhea, and constipation.

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