Collecting data from a client who has an exacerbation of herpes zoster- manifestations of the client's skin should the nurse expect to see?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Unilateral, localized, nodular skin lesions. Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which initially causes chickenpox. This reactivation typically results in a painful rash with unilateral, localized, nodular skin lesions following a specific dermatome pattern. The rash consists of fluid-filled vesicles that eventually crust over. This presentation is distinct from genital herpes (Choice A), which manifests as vesicular rash in the genital region due to herpes simplex virus. Widespread red macules (Choice C) and small, painless ulcers (Choice D) are not characteristic of herpes zoster.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Heat paraffin therapy applied to the client's hands. Heat therapy helps to improve blood circulation, reduce joint stiffness, and alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis exacerbation. Elevated ESR indicates acute inflammation, making heat therapy beneficial in this scenario. Assistive devices are not typically needed for rheumatoid arthritis unless there is severe loss of range of motion. Cold packs are more suitable for acute injuries with swelling, not for chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Surgical joint replacement is considered for severe cases of joint damage, not for acute exacerbations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary characteristic of an autoimmune disease is that the immune system attacks the body's own healthy tissues. This is because in autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly identifies normal cells and tissues as foreign invaders and mounts an immune response against them. This leads to inflammation, tissue damage, and various symptoms of the autoimmune disease. Incorrect choices: A: The immune system failing to recognize foreign pathogens is not the primary characteristic of an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases involve the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues. C: While an overactive immune system producing excessive antibodies can be a feature of some autoimmune diseases, it is not the primary characteristic. The key feature is the immune system attacking healthy tissues. D: An immune system that is suppressed and cannot fight infections effectively is not characteristic of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases involve an immune system that is active but targeting the wrong cells.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Platelets are also known as thrombocytes. This is the correct answer because thrombocytes are responsible for blood clotting. Platelets play a crucial role in preventing excessive bleeding. Lymphocytes, erythrocytes, and leucocytes are different types of blood cells with distinct functions unrelated to blood clotting.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: An autoimmune condition. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body. This condition is not infectious (choice A), not harmless (choice B), and not always associated with HIV (choice C). Lupus is characterized by inflammation and damage to various organs, joints, and skin. It is important to differentiate autoimmune diseases like lupus from infectious diseases and understand their underlying mechanisms for proper diagnosis and treatment.