A nurse is planning care for a newborn who was exposed to active genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) during birth. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A rationale Droplet precautions are implemented for pathogens transmitted via large respiratory droplets, such as influenza or meningococcal disease. Herpes simplex virus is typically transmitted through direct contact with lesions or secretions, not primarily through airborne droplets. Therefore, instituting droplet precautions would not be the most scientifically appropriate measure for preventing HSV transmission in this context. Choice B rationale Ceftriaxone sodium is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, such as gonorrhea or bacterial meningitis. Herpes simplex virus is a viral infection, and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Administering ceftriaxone would not address the underlying viral etiology of the newborn's exposure to HSV. Choice C rationale Bottle-feeding the newborn is not a primary intervention to prevent transmission of HSV from a mother with active genital herpes to a newborn. HSV is transmitted through direct contact during passage through the birth canal. Breastfeeding is generally considered safe for mothers with HSV unless there are active lesions on the breast. Choice D rationale Obtaining surface cultures from the newborn is a crucial diagnostic step to confirm the presence of HSV infection in a neonate exposed during birth. This allows for timely initiation of antiviral therapy, such as acyclovir, which is essential to prevent systemic dissemination and severe complications like encephalitis, which can be life-threatening in newborns.