What is a common symptom of chickenpox that the nurse would recognize?

Raised red bumps, also known as vesicular lesions or maculopapular rashes, are a hallmark symptom of chickenpox (varicella). This characteristic rash usually begins as small red spots that develop into itchy blisters and eventually form crusts as they heal. It typically appears in waves over several days, which is another distinctive feature of chickenpox.

The presence of these raised red bumps is crucial for diagnosis and helps distinguish chickenpox from other illnesses, as it is uncommon for other conditions to present with such a specific type of rash that is associated with the accompanying symptoms of fever and general malaise. Understanding the importance of identifying this rash is essential for nursing professionals, as it aids in patient assessment and management, as well as in educating patients and families about the nature of the illness.