A student at an elementary school health fair reports having itchy circles on the lower legs. Which skin assessment finding should the nurse prioritize for immediate intervention?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

Showering with non-perfumed soaps immediately after practice is a good practice for a teenager with a history of recurring atopic dermatitis (eczema) who wants to play high school sports. Heat and humidity can cause perspiration, which intensifies itching with atopic dermatitis (eczema), so the client should be encouraged to shower, using non-perfumed soaps, as soon as possible after physical activity to remove perspiration.

Choice B rationale

Informing the parents of problems associated with perspiration for those with eczema is also important. However, this does not directly address the teenager’s desire to play sports. It’s more of a secondary action that supports the primary action of managing the condition.

Choice C rationale

Informing the athletic coach of the teenager’s skin condition and its manifestations could be helpful in ensuring that the coach understands the teenager’s needs and can support them appropriately. However, this is not the most direct action that the nurse can take to help the teenager manage their condition while playing sports.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging the teenager to join the swim team instead of an outdoor sport could potentially reduce exposure to triggers for eczema flares, such as sweat and heat. However, chlorine in swimming pools can also be a trigger for some people with eczema. Therefore, this option might not be the best for everyone and should be considered on an individual basis.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is C.

Choice A rationale

Patches of round lesions on both lower legs could be a sign of a skin condition such as ringworm. However, this condition is typically not urgent and can be treated with over-the- counter antifungal creams.

Choice B rationale

Red ring-shaped lesions with normal skin in the center could be a sign of ringworm. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.

Choice C rationale

Itchy, red, scaly patches with blisters that are draining could be a sign of a serious skin infection such as cellulitis. This condition can spread quickly and become serious if not treated promptly, so it should be prioritized for immediate intervention.

Choice D rationale

Several irritated circular bald, flaky scalp patches could be a sign of a scalp condition such as tinea capitis. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.