Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 79%
Simulated
After an unimmunized individual is exposed to hepatitis B through a needle-stick injury, which actions will the nurse plan to take (select one that does not apply)?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
In the case of exposure to hepatitis B, the nurse should plan to administer hepatitis B vaccine to provide active immunity. Testing for antibodies to hepatitis B is essential to determine the individual's immune status. Giving hepatitis B immune globulin is necessary for passive immunity in cases of exposure. However, teaching about alpha-interferon therapy is not part of the standard management for hepatitis B exposure. Interferon therapy and oral antivirals are typically used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B infections, not for prophylaxis after exposure.