Which statement made by a parent indicates an understanding of the topical application of medications for a skin condition?
"I apply the medication after I give my child a bath.”.
"I rub the ointment in a circular motion over the rash.”.
"I increased the amount of cream because the rash was not improving.”.
"I use powder and cornstarch to keep the skin dry.”.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Applying medication after a bath is correct because the skin is hydrated and warm, which enhances the absorption of the topical agent. The open pores and softened stratum corneum allow for better penetration of the medication, maximizing its therapeutic effect on the underlying skin condition.
Choice B rationale
Rubbing the ointment in a circular motion can cause mechanical irritation and friction to the compromised skin, which can worsen the rash. The correct technique is to gently smooth the medication over the affected area in a thin, even layer.
Choice C rationale
Increasing the amount of cream without a prescription can lead to systemic absorption and potential adverse effects, especially with corticosteroid creams. The dosage is carefully prescribed to balance therapeutic effects with minimal risk of side effects. Over-application can also cause skin thinning.
Choice D rationale
Using powder and cornstarch is not recommended for skin conditions, as these substances can trap moisture and debris, creating a medium for bacterial or fungal growth. This can exacerbate the underlying skin condition and increase the risk of secondary infections.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A blood pressure of 98/58 mm Hg in a client who needs a beta blocker is a significant safety concern. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of epinephrine, which can cause a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. Administering a beta blocker to a client with a pre-existing low blood pressure (normotensive range is 120/80 mm Hg) could cause a profound and dangerous drop in blood pressure, leading to hypotension, syncope, and inadequate organ perfusion. This client needs immediate assessment before medication administration.
Choice B rationale
A client needing to use the bathroom after taking captopril is not an immediate priority. While captopril can cause hypotension, the primary concern is the potential for a first-dose hypotensive effect. However, a client's need to void is a common and expected request and does not indicate an acute, life-threatening crisis requiring immediate intervention before other clients.
Choice C rationale
A blood pressure of 188/92 mm Hg, while elevated, is not an immediate life-threatening emergency unless there are signs of end-organ damage (e.g., chest pain, neurological changes). This is considered a hypertensive urgency, which requires a prompt but not immediate intervention to lower the blood pressure gradually. This client is stable and can be assessed after the client in Choice A, who is at risk for a profound hypotensive event.
Choice D rationale
A client needing pain medication before a dressing change is not the highest priority. Pain management is an important aspect of care, but it is not an acute physiological emergency. Delaying pain medication for a short time to address a life-threatening physiological instability in another client is an appropriate triage decision. The client in Choice A is at higher risk for a critical physiological event. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The presence of white flakes that are difficult to brush off the hair is a classic sign of pediculosis capitis, also known as head lice. These flakes are nits, or lice eggs, which are cemented to the hair shaft and are not easily removed. The rash on the back of the neck is often a result of scratching or an allergic reaction to the lice saliva.
Choice B rationale
Impetigo contagiosa is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by red sores that quickly rupture, ooze for a few days, and then form a honey-colored crust. It typically does not present with white flakes in the hair.
Choice C rationale
Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It presents as small, red pimples with a hair in the center. It is not associated with white flakes or nits in the hair.
Choice D rationale
Tinea capitis, a fungal infection of the scalp, is characterized by scaly patches of temporary baldness. It may cause inflammation and itching, but it does not produce the characteristic white flakes or nits that adhere to the hair shaft.
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