Page 1157 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

2. Provide bed rest until the parotid gland swelling
subsides.
3. Avoid foods that require chewing.
4. Apply hot or cold compresses as prescribed to the
neck.
5. Apply warmth and local support with snug-fitting
underpants to relieve orchitis.
6. Monitor for signs of aseptic meningitis (see Chapters
38 and 58 for information on meningitis).
VIII. Chickenpox (Varicella)
A. Description
1. Agent: Varicella-zoster (VCZ) virus
2. Incubation period: 13 to 17 days
3. Communicable period: From 1 to 2 days before the
onset of the rash to 6 days after the first crop of
vesicles, when crusts have formed
4. Source: Respiratory tract secretions of infected person;
skin lesions

5. Transmission: Direct contact, airborne, droplet

spread, and contaminated objects
B. Assessment (Fig. 40-5)
1. Slight fever, malaise, and anorexia are followed by a
macular rash that first appears on the trunk and scalp
and moves to the face and extremities.
2. Lesions become pustules, begin to dry, and develop a
crust.
3. Lesions may appear on the mucous membranes of the
mouth, the genital area, and the rectal area.
C. Interventions

1. In the hospital, ensure strict isolation (contact

and, droplet, precautions).

2. At home, isolate the infected child until the

vesicles have dried.
3. An antiviral agent may be used to treat varicella
infections in susceptible immunocompromised
persons to decrease the number of lesions; shorten the
duration of fever; and decrease itching, lethargy, and
anorexia.
4. The use of varicella zoster (VCZ) immune globulin or
intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is recommended
for children who are immunocompromised, who have
no previous history of varicella, and who are likely to
contract the disease and have complications as a
result.

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