A client has a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What comfort measure does the nurse delegate to the assistive personnel (AP)?

Choice A rationale

Healing by primary intention, also known as primary union, occurs when a wound has clean edges that are approximated and sutured, stapled, or glued together. This process minimizes tissue loss and results in a fine scar. The wound's integrity is re-established with minimal granulation tissue formation.

Choice B rationale

This describes a form of delayed primary closure or tertiary intention healing. The wound is initially left open to allow for drainage and to clear infection. Once the wound is considered clean and free of infection, the edges are then approximated and closed, often with staples, to promote healing.

Choice C rationale

Healing by secondary intention, or secondary union, occurs in large, open wounds with significant tissue loss and non-approximated edges. The wound heals from the base up. This process involves the formation of new connective tissue and capillaries, called granulation tissue, to fill the defect before epithelialization can occur.

Choice D rationale

While contaminated wounds can heal by secondary intention, this description is not a complete definition. Secondary intention healing is a specific biological process involving granulation tissue, not just a description of a wound that is open due to contamination or debris. The defining characteristic is the formation of granulation tissue.

Choice A rationale

Bathing a child with infantile eczema using products containing fragrance can be irritating to the already compromised skin barrier. Fragrances are common allergens and can trigger or worsen the inflammatory response in atopic dermatitis. It is essential to use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products to minimize irritation and prevent exacerbations.

Choice B rationale

Using oatmeal and baking soda as bath additives can be soothing for the irritated skin of a child with infantile eczema. Colloidal oatmeal contains avenanthramides which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while baking soda can help to relieve itching. These additives can help to calm the skin and reduce the urge to scratch.

Choice C rationale

Adding bath oil to bath water after the child has soaked for a period of time is a beneficial practice. Soaking in water allows the skin to rehydrate. Adding the oil at the end of the bath helps to seal in the moisture, forming a protective barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss, which is a key issue in eczema.

Choice D rationale

Lanolin is a fatty substance derived from sheep wool. While it can be a good moisturizer, it is also a common allergen. Applying lanolin-based lotions to a child with eczema can potentially trigger an allergic reaction or worsen the skin condition. It is safer to use hypoallergenic, non-irritating moisturizers.

Choice E rationale

Bathing a child several times a day can strip the skin of its natural oils, which can worsen the dryness and irritation associated with infantile eczema. The skin barrier is already compromised, and frequent bathing can exacerbate this problem. It is generally recommended to limit bathing to once a day or less to maintain skin integrity. .