A nurse is reinforcing teaching with the parent of an infant who has sehorrheic dermitis (cradle cap) of the scalp. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
"When patches are present it indicates that your infant has asystemic infection."
"You should avoid washing your infant's hair while patches are on the scalp."
"When patches are present are present, you should keep your infant away from others.
"You can use petrolatum to help soften and remove patches from your infant's scalp".
The Correct Answer is D
A. Seborrheic dermatitis, commonly known as cradle cap, is a benign inflammatory condition affecting the scalp of infants. It is caused by overactive sebaceous glands and possibly Malassezia yeast, not by bacteria or a systemic infection. The presence of crusty or scaly patches does not indicate the infant is ill or infected systemically.
B. Gentle washing is an important part of managing cradle cap. Shampooing with a mild, non-irritating baby shampoo helps to loosen scales and remove debris, preventing thick crust formation. Avoiding washing can allow flakes to accumulate and worsen the appearance, and does not improve the condition.
C. Cradle cap is not contagious, so there is no need for isolation. The condition does not pose a risk to family members, peers, or caregivers. Reassuring parents about this helps reduce unnecessary anxiety.
D. Applying petrolatum, mineral oil, or other emollients softens the thick, scaly patches, making it easier to gently brush or comb them away. This intervention helps reduce crusting and improves the appearance of the scalp. Following with gentle shampooing ensures scales are removed safely without irritating the infant’s skin. This approach is considered first-line, non-pharmacologic management for mild to moderate seborrheic dermatitis in infants and can often resolve the condition without medical treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Seborrheic dermatitis primarily affects areas rich in sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face, and upper trunk. Lesions are usually greasy, yellowish scales rather than pruritic, fluid-filled vesicles localized to the lower leg.
B. Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles, presenting as small, red pustules or papules centered on hair follicles. It does not typically produce widespread fluid-filled vesicles and intense pruritus like contact dermatitis.
C. Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Typical findings include pruritus, erythema, and fluid-filled vesicles. The lower leg is a common site if the area came into contact with an irritant, such as plants, chemicals, or topical products. This pattern of localized vesicular rash and itching is characteristic of contact dermatitis.
D. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, presenting as diffuse, red, warm, swollen, and tender areas, often with systemic symptoms such as fever. Vesicles are not a typical feature, and pruritus is generally mild or absent.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This description is more characteristic of tinea corporis (ringworm), a fungal infection, rather than impetigo. Ringworm presents with circular, scaly lesions with central clearing.
B. Impetigo contagiosa commonly presents as red macules or vesicles that quickly develop honey-colored crusts. The lesions are often found on the face, around the mouth, or on the extremities, and they may be itchy. This presentation is the hallmark of bacterial impetigo caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
C. This description fits verruca vulgaris (common warts) caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), not impetigo. Warts are generally painless and not associated with crusting or acute infection.
D. White exudate is more indicative of fungal infections or candidiasis, not the classic appearance of impetigo, which produces the distinct honey-colored crust rather than a white, creamy discharge.
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