Herpes Simplex I II A chronic inflammatory disease

Herpes Simplex I & II: A chronic inflammatory disease with characteristics of exacerbation and a remission period.

Pathophysiology • Herpes simplex I usually produces cold sores around the lips. • • Herpes simplex II, also known as genital herpes, produces painful lesions that are fluid filled. • • The vesicle causes itching and pain, it then ruptures causing a crusting appearance.

Risk Factors/Causes: • Direct contact with the virus. • HSV I can cause HSV II.

Signs/Symptoms: Prodromal • Low-grade temperature • Malaise • Burning or itching on mouth or genital. Active Infection • Clustered, painful vesicles • Affecting the skin, anus, genital, etc. • Vesicles erupt 3 -4 days after forming. • Vesicles usually disappear within 14 days.

Lab/Diagnostics Tests: • The culture of vesicle exudates. • A blood test is performed to determine the specific antibodies.

Medical Treatments: • Antiviral medication • Analgesic • Warm bath • Cool compresses • Colloidal oatmeal • Antipyretic

Complications: • Neonatal infections are passed through the birth canal. • Blindness • Secondary infection

Nursing Diagnosis: • Pain • Impaired skin integrity • Risk for infection

Nursing Interventions: • Assess skin • Monitor vital sign/I &O • Assess pain • Administer medications as per doctor’s order • Patient education