NCLEX Review Guide: Hepatitis Home Care Instructions

Infection Control and Prevention

• Hand hygiene is the most critical intervention - clients must wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
• Avoid sharing personal items including razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers, and eating utensils to prevent transmission through blood or saliva contact.
• Use separate towels, washcloths, and bedding until cleared by healthcare provider, washing all items in hot water with bleach when possible.
• Practice safe sex by using barrier protection and inform sexual partners of hepatitis status for appropriate testing and vaccination.

Dietary Management and Nutrition

• Maintain adequate protein intake (1.2-1.5 g/kg body weight) to support liver regeneration while monitoring for signs of hepatic encephalopathy in severe cases.
• Eliminate alcohol completely as it causes additional liver damage and interferes with healing processes, even in small amounts.
• Consume small, frequent meals (5-6 times daily) with emphasis on complex carbohydrates to maintain energy levels and reduce nausea.
• Increase fluid intake to 2500-3000 mL daily unless contraindicated, focusing on water, herbal teas, and clear broths to support liver function.

Activity and Rest Management

• Fatigue management requires balancing adequate rest periods with light activity to prevent deconditioning while allowing liver recovery.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting during acute phase, gradually increasing activity level as tolerated and approved by healthcare provider.
• Plan activities during times of highest energy (usually morning hours) and incorporate frequent rest breaks throughout the day.
• Return to work only when cleared by healthcare provider and no longer contagious, typically 1-2 weeks after symptom onset for Hepatitis A.

Medication Management and Monitoring

• Avoid hepatotoxic medications including acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and herbal supplements without healthcare provider approval.
• Take prescribed antiviral medications exactly as ordered, completing full course even if symptoms improve to prevent resistance and relapse.
• Monitor for medication side effects and report immediately: severe fatigue, abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellowing of skin/eyes.
• Maintain medication adherence schedule using pill organizers or smartphone reminders to ensure consistent therapeutic levels.

Quick Assessment Questions

1. What foods should be avoided? (Alcohol, fatty foods during acute phase)
2. When can the client return to work? (When no longer contagious, provider clearance)
3. What personal items cannot be shared? (Razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers)
4. What medications are contraindicated? (Acetaminophen, NSAIDs, hepatotoxic drugs)