A nurse is assessing a patient with a Fungal Skin Infection.
What should the nurse prioritize during the physical examination?

Choice A rationale:

When assessing a patient with a fungal skin infection, the nurse should prioritize checking for signs of secondary infection.

Secondary bacterial infections can occur in areas affected by fungal infections, especially if the skin barrier is compromised due to itching, scratching, or fissures.

Signs of secondary infection may include increased redness, warmth, tenderness, pus, or the presence of cellulitis.

Identifying and addressing secondary infections is crucial for appropriate patient management.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the patient's medical history is an important aspect of the assessment but may not be the top priority when evaluating a patient with a fungal skin infection.

While medical history can provide valuable information about predisposing factors, such as diabetes or immunosuppression, and previous fungal infections, it should be conducted after the initial assessment of the affected area to guide treatment decisions.

Choice C rationale:

Documenting the extent of itching is relevant but not the top priority

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the patient on the correct application of topical antifungal medications is important, but it may not be the top priority.

While proper application is essential, preventing reinfection and transmission are key to managing fungal skin infections effectively.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct answer because it addresses two critical aspects of preventing complications related to fungal skin infections.

Wearing breathable footwear helps maintain a dry environment, which inhibits fungal growth, and avoiding sharing personal items reduces the risk of reinfection and transmission.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the patient on proper hygiene practices, such as keeping the affected area clean and dry, is important for managing fungal skin infections.

However, it is not the highest priority compared to preventing reinfection and transmission.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the patient's response to treatment and documenting improvements or complications is an essential nursing responsibility.

However, it is not the most critical intervention to prevent complications related to the infection.

Prevention measures take precedence.