A nurse in a provider's office is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a school-age child who has pediculosis capitis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Apply an antifungal ointment once per day.
Apply hydrogen peroxide twice daily.
Ensure that family pets are treated within 10 days.
Wash all bed linens and dry them in a dryer for at least 20 min.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Antifungal ointments, such as clotrimazole or miconazole, are used to treat fungal infections like tinea capitis or ringworm. Pediculosis capitis is caused by head lice (an ectoparasite), not a fungus, so antifungal ointments are ineffective. Using them can delay appropriate treatment and does not eradicate lice or nits.
B. Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used for minor wound cleaning or hair bleaching, but it has no proven effect on lice or nits. Its application to the scalp can cause skin irritation, dryness, and discomfort without treating the underlying infestation, making it an inappropriate intervention.
C. Head lice are species-specific parasites that infest humans and cannot survive on pets. Treating animals is unnecessary and does not prevent reinfestation. Resources and efforts should instead focus on treating the affected child, close human contacts, and contaminated personal items.
D. Lice and nits can survive on bedding, clothing, hats, and towels. Washing these items in hot water and drying them on high heat for at least 20 minutes effectively kills lice and prevents reinfestation. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in an airtight plastic bag for 14 days. This environmental control is an essential component of comprehensive pediculosis management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Burow’s solution is an astringent used for conditions such as weeping eczema or mild skin irritations, but it does not treat bacterial infections like cellulitis. It may provide soothing, but it is not an effective therapeutic intervention for cellulitis.
B. Cryotherapy involves freezing tissue and is used for lesions such as warts or certain skin growths, not for bacterial infections like cellulitis. It has no role in treating acute bacterial infections.
C. Topical antifungals are used for fungal infections such as tinea infections, not for bacterial cellulitis. Cellulitis requires systemic treatment targeting bacteria.
D. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species. The first-line treatment is typically oral antibiotics for mild to moderate infections. Severe cases may require IV antibiotics. Administering antibiotics addresses the underlying infection, reduces inflammation, and prevents the spread of infection.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This response dismisses the parent’s concerns and limits the child’s social and developmental opportunities. It does not address the underlying feelings or provide guidance on safe participation in school or sports.
B. Labeling the parent as “overprotective” is judgmental and may make the parent feel defensive. It does not encourage open communication or validate her concerns.
C. While well-being is important, this response does not explore the parent’s feelings or provide education about safely managing diabetes during physical activity. It may inadvertently reinforce anxiety rather than support informed decision-making.
D. This response is therapeutic and open-ended, encouraging the parent to express her concerns and emotions. It allows the nurse to assess the parent’s understanding, provide education about safe diabetes management during school and sports, and collaborate on strategies to promote the child’s participation while minimizing risk. This approach supports both parental reassurance and the child’s psychosocial development.
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