Question

a nurse in a primary care clinic is assessing a client who has a history of herpes zoster. which of the following findings suggests that the client has postherpetic neuralgia?
a linear clusters of vesicles on the right shoulder
b purulent drainage from both eyes
c decreased white blood cell count
d report of continued pain following resolution of the rash

Explanation:

Postherpetic neuralgia is a complication of herpes zoster (shingles). It is characterized by pain that persists after the rash (vesicles) of shingles has resolved. Linear clusters of vesicles (Option A) are a feature of active herpes zoster, not postherpetic neuralgia. Purulent drainage from both eyes (Option B) is more indicative of an eye infection like conjunctivitis rather than postherpetic neuralgia. A decreased white blood cell count (Option C) is a general sign of possible infection or other health issues but not specific to postherpetic neuralgia. Only the report of continued pain following resolution of the rash (Option D) aligns with the definition and key manifestation of postherpetic neuralgia.

Answer:

D. Report of continued pain following resolution of the rash