A teenager presents to the clinic with complaints of painful lesions, fever, headache, and vaginal discharge. After testing she is diagnosed with Herpes simplex virus type 2. What education should the nurse include in a teaching plan? (Select All that Apply.)

A. Penicillin Penicillin is an antibiotic used for bacterial infections, not viral infections like HSV-2. Herpes simplex virus requires antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir for symptom management. B. Perineal care of genital lesions Proper perineal care helps prevent secondary infections and promotes healing. The client should be advised to keep the area clean and dry, avoid irritating soaps, and wear loose-fitting clothing. C. Use of barrier protection Consistent use of barrier protection (e.g., condoms) reduces the risk of transmitting HSV-2 to sexual partners. The client should be educated that HSV-2 can be transmitted even when lesions are not visible due to asymptomatic viral shedding. D. Gardasil injection Gardasil is a vaccine that protects against certain strains of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), not HSV-2. While both HSV-2 and HPV are sexually transmitted infections, they are caused by different viruses and require different preventive measures. E. Hand washing Proper hand hygiene prevents the spread of HSV-2 from touching lesions and transferring the virus to other body areas or individuals. Clients should be advised to wash hands thoroughly after touching affected areas.