A 6-year-old child presents to the emergency department with a fever of 102°F (38.9°C), generalized pruritic rash, and vesicular lesions in various stages. The parents report the child has not been vaccinated against varicella. What is the BEST course of action for this patient?
Administer oral acyclovir and implement airborne and contact precautions
Administer varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG)
Prescribe oral antibiotics and antipyretics
Provide supportive care only and discharge with follow-up instructions
Acyclovir is the most appropriate treatment for this patient with suspected chicken pox (varicella). It is an antiviral medication that can help reduce the severity and duration of the infection, especially when administered within 24 hours of rash onset. While supportive care is important, acyclovir provides targeted treatment against the varicella-zoster virus. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like chicken pox. Varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) is used for post-exposure prophylaxis in high-risk individuals but is not the primary treatment for active infection. Isolation is crucial to prevent spread, but it's not the best course of action for treating the patient's condition.
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BCEN CEN
Environment and Toxicology Emergencies, and Communicable Diseases
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