American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ANCC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The prognosis that severe pain following a unilateral rash, particularly in the context of an 87-year-old patient, might never completely disappear is rooted in the understanding of postherpetic neuralgia, a common complication of herpes zoster (shingles). In older adults, especially those over the age of 60, the likelihood of developing persistent pain after the rash resolves increases significantly.

In many cases, the initial rash is accompanied by severe pain, which can linger even after the visible lesions have healed. This persistent pain can be a result of nerve damage caused by the herpes zoster virus. The aging nervous system is often less resilient, making it more susceptible to lasting pain conditions.

Older adults may experience chronic pain that may not fully resolve, which impacts their quality of life. Therefore, acknowledging that the pain might never completely disappear is an important aspect of managing the patient's expectations and planning for ongoing pain management strategies. This prognosis also emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to offer comprehensive care that addresses both physical and psychological needs of older adults suffering from chronic pain.