What characteristic finding would a nurse expect to assess in a client with genital herpes?

In a client with genital herpes, one of the hallmark characteristics is the presence of ulcerated lesions on the labia. Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), commonly manifests with painful sores or blisters in the genital area. These lesions often start as small vesicles that can rupture, leading to painful ulcerations.

The presence of these ulcerated lesions is significant as they are associated with the typical symptoms of herpes, which may include itching, burning sensation, and discomfort. The lesions may also be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and lymphadenopathy during an outbreak.

Recognizing the appearance and location of these lesions is crucial for diagnosis and management. It emphasizes the need for patient education regarding the nature of the disease, its transmission, and methods of controlling outbreaks.