A 16-year-old adolescent visits an outpatient clinic for a routine physical examination. The healthcare provider prescribes the varicella vaccine. During the pre-procedure data collection, which information must the practical nurse identify as a contraindication to administering this immunization?
- The client is currently taking high-dose oral immunosuppressive therapy for an autoimmune condition.Answer
- BThe client reports experiencing a mild, afebrile upper respiratory infection that began two days ago.
- CThe client resides in the same household as a healthy pregnant woman who is in her second trimester.
- DThe client observes a strict vegetarian diet to adhere to specific cultural and religious beliefs.
Answer
The client currently taking high-dose oral immunosuppressive therapy for an autoimmune condition.
The varicella vaccine is a live-attenuated immunization. It is strictly contraindicated for individuals who are severely immunocompromised, including those taking high-dose immunosuppressive medications. An immunocompromised body cannot safely process the weakened live virus, which could lead to a severe, disseminated infection rather than building immunity.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Live-attenuated vaccines are strictly contraindicated in clients with compromised immune systems due to the high risk of developing a severe vaccine-induced infection.