A Patient with HIV Contracts Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and the Prescriber

question 43

Multiple Choice

A patient with HIV contracts herpes simplex virus (HSV) , and the prescriber orders acyclovir 400 mg PO twice daily for 10 days. After 7 days of therapy, the patient reports having an increased number of lesions. What action will the provider take?

• A) Extend this patient's drug therapy to twice daily for 12 months.
• B) Order intravenous foscarnet every 8 hours for 2 to 3 weeks.
• C) Increase the acyclovir dose to 800 mg PO five times daily.
• D) Order intravenous valacyclovir [Valtrex] 1 g PO twice daily for 10 days.

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Definitions:

Biopsychosocial Approach

Approach to psychopathology that seeks to integrate biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding and treating psychopathology.

Physical Health

The state of one's body, including fitness level, absence of disease, and overall physical condition.

Depression

A psychological disorder defined by a continuous state of sadness or a disinterest in activities, leading to considerable dysfunction in everyday functioning.

Coronary Heart Disease

A condition characterized by the narrowing of the coronary arteries, which supply blood and oxygen to the heart, leading to potential heart attacks.