The nurse is planning nursing care for a 3-month-old infant with eczema. What would be considered a priority intervention for this client?

A. Cyanosis is a late sign of hypoxia, occurring when oxygen saturation is significantly low. It's often visible in the mucous membranes and skin.
B. Restlessness is often one of the earliest signs of hypoxia. As oxygen levels decrease, the brain becomes deprived of oxygen, leading to changes in mental status, including restlessness, confusion, and agitation.
C. Increased respirations (tachypnea) can be a sign of hypoxia, but it's often a later response as the body attempts to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.
D. Hypertension is not a typical sign of hypoxia. In fact, severe hypoxia can lead to hypotension as blood pressure decreases.

A. While calamine lotion can be soothing and help alleviate itching, applying a thick coat over open lesions is not advisable. It may not allow the skin to breathe and can potentially lead to further irritation or infection. Therefore, while this option has some merit, it is not the priority intervention.
B. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help relieve itching. This option can be beneficial for managing pruritus and may help the child sleep better. However, while it can be useful, there are other interventions that can provide immediate comfort more effectively.
C. Applying a cool cloth to the rash is an immediate and effective way to provide comfort and relieve itching. The coolness can soothe inflamed skin and reduce the urge to scratch, which helps prevent secondary infections.
D. While giving ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce fever and discomfort associated with varicella, it does not specifically address pruritus. These medications are helpful for pain management but are not the best choice for alleviating itching directly.