What should a nurse instruct a pregnant client with genital herpes regarding labor precautions?

For a pregnant client with genital herpes, it is essential to recognize the implications of active lesions during labor. If lesions are present in the genital area during labor, there is a significant risk of transmitting the herpes virus to the newborn, which can lead to severe complications. Consequently, the recommended course of action is to perform a cesarean section to prevent direct exposure of the baby to the virus.

The precaution is based on the potential severity of neonatal herpes, which can cause serious morbidity and mortality in infants if they contract the virus during delivery. Even if the mother is on antiviral medication, such as acyclovir, while it may help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, it does not eliminate the risk of transmission if lesions are present at the time of delivery. Therefore, the necessity of a cesarean section when active lesions are present is an essential guideline in managing pregnant clients with genital herpes safely.