Causative organism of chickenpox?

Appeared in: BSF Staff Nurse - 2021

Explanation

Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease caused by the Varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
VZV is a member of the human herpesvirus family, specifically Human alphaherpesvirus 3.
The primary infection with VZV results in chickenpox, which is characterized by a widespread vesicular rash.
This virus is distinct from bacteria and fungi, which are different classes of microorganisms.

Option B: Bacteria are single-celled prokaryotic organisms. They cause diseases like strep throat or urinary tract infections, but not chickenpox.
Option C: Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that include yeasts and molds. They cause infections such as ringworm or candidiasis, which have different clinical presentations and are treated with antifungal medications.
Option D: This option is incorrect because the causative agent, a virus, is listed as the first option.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agent of chickenpox as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must implement both airborne and contact precautions for hospitalized patients with chickenpox to prevent nosocomial (hospital-acquired) spread. Isolation should continue until all lesions have crusted over.
Patient education is a key nursing role. This includes teaching about the contagious period, discouraging scratching to prevent secondary bacterial infections and scarring, and managing symptoms like itching and fever.
Vaccination is the most effective prevention. Nurses often administer the varicella vaccine and educate parents on its importance and schedule.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for the type of microorganism that causes the disease 'chickenpox'.
This is a direct recall question based on knowledge of common infectious diseases.
Recall the major categories of pathogens: viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
Mentally categorize common diseases. Chickenpox is widely known as a viral illness of childhood.
Evaluate the given options: 'Virus', 'Bacteria', 'Fungi'.
Select 'Virus' as it correctly identifies the class of organism responsible for chickenpox.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) pp. 146-148, 147-149

Practise the full BSF Staff Nurse - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.