PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

Which statement about genital herpes transmission should a nurse emphasize to a client with a new diagnosis?

1. Use barrier methods for sexual contact when lesions are present.

2. The lesions resolve in 2 weeks and usually do not recur.

3. The virus can be transmitted without lesions being present.

4. Look for lesions that have a wart-like appearance.

The correct answer is: The virus can be transmitted without lesions being present.

The correct answer emphasizes that the herpes simplex virus can be transmitted even when there are no visible lesions present. This is a crucial point for individuals diagnosed with genital herpes to understand, as awareness of asymptomatic transmission can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to sexual partners. The herpes simplex virus can shed from the skin without obvious signs or symptoms, particularly during periods when the virus is dormant. Therefore, engaging in sexual activity during these times without taking precautions, such as using barrier methods, may still pose a risk of transmission. Educating clients on this reality encourages safer practices and can promote better relationship dynamics by enabling transparent communication about health status with partners. Other statements might provide incomplete or misleading information. For example, while using barrier methods during active lesions is advisable, relying solely on that practice does not account for the risk of transmission when lesions are not visible. Additionally, while many lesions may resolve within two weeks, recurrences can occur, and clients need to be informed about this pattern of the disease. The appearance of lesions as wart-like is also not characteristic of genital herpes, as herpes lesions typically appear as painful blisters rather than warts. Thus, understanding the potential for asymptomatic viral shedding is essential for safe sexual practices.