A nurse is assessing a client with acne vulgaris using a grading scale. Which grading scale is commonly used to evaluate the severity of acne in patients?

Choice A rationale:

The presence of redness, swelling, and tenderness.

Rationale: The presence of redness, swelling, and tenderness is not a grading scale but rather a description of the clinical features of acne.

It does not represent a standardized system for evaluating the severity of acne.

Choice B rationale:

Leeds Acne Grading System.

Rationale: The Leeds Acne Grading System is a commonly used standardized scale for assessing the severity of acne.

It takes into account the type and number of lesions (comedones, papules, pustules, nodules) in various regions of the face and assigns a numerical score, which helps clinicians track the progress of treatment and determine its effectiveness.

Choice C rationale:

Closed comedones (whiteheads).

Rationale: Closed comedones (whiteheads) are a type of acne lesion, but they are not a grading scale.

Grading scales assess the overall severity and characteristics of acne rather than specific lesion types.

Choice D rationale:

Papules and pustules.

Rationale: Papules and pustules are types of acne lesions, but they are not a grading scale.

Grading scales focus on a broader evaluation of acne severity, considering factors such as lesion type, number, and distribution.

Choice A rationale:

"You may experience redness and tenderness around the lesions as a side effect." Rationale: Topical treatments for acne, such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, can commonly cause side effects like redness and tenderness.

These side effects are often temporary and may be experienced as the skin adjusts to the treatment.

It's important for the nurse to inform the client about these potential side effects to ensure they are aware and prepared for them.

Choice B rationale:

"Topical treatments include antibiotics and hormonal therapy." Rationale: While topical treatments for acne can include antibiotics, hormonal therapy is typically administered orally, not topically.

Topical treatments primarily consist of retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and topical antibiotics.

Choice C rationale:

"Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are commonly used topical treatments." Rationale: Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are not considered topical treatments for acne vulgaris.

These are cosmetic procedures that primarily address skin texture and may not be suitable for all acne patients.

Choice D rationale:

"Maintaining a healthy diet is the primary topical treatment for acne." Rationale: Diet can influence acne, but it is not considered a topical treatment.

Proper diet and skincare routines can complement acne treatment but are not primary treatment modalities.

Topical treatments usually involve the application of medications directly to the skin.