What should a nurse monitor for in clients receiving antiviral therapy?

In clients receiving antiviral therapy, it is crucial for the nurse to monitor for symptoms of viral replication. Antiviral medications are designed to suppress or inhibit the ability of viruses to replicate, and observing for signs of continued viral activity can indicate the effectiveness of the treatment. This monitoring helps determine whether the chosen antiviral is working or if there is a need to consider alternative therapies or adjustments.

Monitoring for symptoms of viral replication can include watching for signs of the original viral infection worsening, such as the return of characteristic symptoms (e.g., fever, fatigue, or lesions depending on the virus in question). If symptoms suggest ongoing viral activity or new viral manifestations, it may require reassessment of the treatment approach or further diagnostic evaluation.

Increased immunity to all infections is not a direct goal of antiviral therapy, which specifically targets viral pathogens rather than enhancing overall immune function against all types of infections.

Blood pressure changes may be encountered in patients on various medications but are not specifically relevant to the efficacy of antiviral agents. Symptoms of infection resistance usually relate to bacterial infection and antibiotic use, rather than the context of antiviral therapies, which specifically address viral infections.