Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 87%
Simulated
A nurse is providing care to a client who has a history of asthma. The client presents with influenza symptoms that started the previous day. The provider orders an influenza test and prescribes an oral antiviral with instructions to begin the treatment as soon as possible. The client asks the nurse whether they can take the antiviral before the lab results are back. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Antivirals are most effective when initiated within 48 hours of influenza symptom onset, especially in high-risk individuals like those with asthma.