Question

A nurse is teaching a client who has genital herpes about self-management

Answer 1

The nurse should teach the patient to, "apply a warm compress to the lesions". 

Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, which has almost no symptoms most of the time. Herpes produces blisters around the infected area, and these blisters may burst to leave painful sores. This is referred to as an outbreak. When managing herpes, it is beneficial to address the blisters and lesions using a warm compress.

Answer 2

Instructions of applying a warm compress to the lesions should the nurse include in the teaching. The client should wear loose, cotton underwear to promote cleanliness and dryness in the genital area. Sitz baths can promote cleanliness and reduction inflammation in the area. A hair dryer, set on a cool setting can be used to carefully dry the lesions in the perineal area. Drinking plenty of fluids is advised to decrease dysuria which accompanies genital herpes. Education for this client should include an explanation of Importance of informing his partners of the disease. Clients with genital herpes must notify their partners of the disease to help avoid transmission. Petroleum products must be avoided because they can cause the virus to spread. The idea that genital herpes is only infectious when visible lesions are existing is false. Anyone not in a long standing, committed relationship, irrespective of present health position must follow safer-sex performs.