The nurse is assigned to care for a female client with herpes zoster (Shingles). Which of the following characteristics would the nurse expect to note when assessing the lesions of this infection?
a. Clustered skin vesicles
b. A generalized body rash
c. Small blue-white spots with a red base
d. A fiery red, edematous rash on the cheeks
Answer A.
The primary lesion of herpes zoster is a vesicle. The classic presentation is grouped vesicles on an erythematous base along a dermatome. Because the lesions follow nerve pathways, they do not cross the midline of the body. Options B, C, and D are incorrect descriptions of herpes zoster.
a. Clustered skin vesicles
b. A generalized body rash
c. Small blue-white spots with a red base
d. A fiery red, edematous rash on the cheeks
Answer A.
The primary lesion of herpes zoster is a vesicle. The classic presentation is grouped vesicles on an erythematous base along a dermatome. Because the lesions follow nerve pathways, they do not cross the midline of the body. Options B, C, and D are incorrect descriptions of herpes zoster.