The nurse is assessing a child with herpetic gingivostomatitis. In determining whether to wear gloves, the nurse bases the decision on which of the following?
A. This virus easily enters breaks in the skin. Correct
B. Gloves are always worn at the discretion of the nurse.
C. The lesions do not contain the virus, so gloves are not needed.
D. Herpes simplex is difficult to spread, minimizing the need for gloves.
Answer: A. The herpes simplex virus is highly contagious and can easily enter breaks in the skin of the hands. Although the nurse can decide not to wear gloves, this is a violation of universal precautions because contact with the oral mucosa may take place. Herpetic gingivostomatitis is present in the lesions and is easily spread.
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