An Asian family arrives with their newborn for a well visit. When assessing the infant, the nurse observes the following skin irregularity. What is the nurse's priority action?

Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because this question will help the nurse assess the pain level and discomfort of the client with red scaling papules. Red scaling papules are raised skin lesions that are red and covered with scales. They can indicate psoriasis, which is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation and rapid turnover of skin cells. Psoriasis can cause pain, itching, burning, or stinging sensations in the affected areas. The nurse should ask the client to rate their pain on a numeric or descriptive scale and provide analgesics or topical agents as prescribed.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because this question will not help the nurse assess the condition of the client with red scaling papules. Red scaling papules are not affected by food intake but by other factors such as stress, infection, injury, or medication. Psoriasis is not an allergic or dietary disorder, but an immune-mediated disorder that causes abnormal skin cell growth. The nurse should ask the client about their medical history, current medications, and triggers or aggravating factors for their psoriasis.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because this question will not help the nurse assess the condition of the client with red scaling papules. Red scaling papules are not treated with antibiotics but with other medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biologics. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, which are not the cause of psoriasis. The nurse should ask the client about their treatment regimen, compliance, and effectiveness for their psoriasis.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because this question will not help the nurse assess the condition of
the client with red scaling papules. Red scaling papules are not related to weekend activities but to chronic skin inflammation and abnormal cell turnover. Psoriasis is not a lifestyle disorder, but a genetic disorder that can be influenced by environmental factors. The nurse should ask the client about their family history, exposure to sun or cold, and stress level for their psoriasis.

Choice A Reason: Reporting itching if it becomes bothersome is part of client teaching, as it may indicate inflammation or infection of the ear canal. External otitis is also known as swimmer's ear, as it can be caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing.

Choice B Reason: Using earplugs when swimming is part of client teaching, as it can prevent water from entering and irritating the ear canal. External otitis can be prevented by keeping the ear dry and avoiding trauma or foreign objects.

Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. Inserting a cotton-tip applicator to remove excess wax is not part of client teaching, as it can damage or scratch the ear canal and increase the risk of infection. Wax helps protect and lubricate the ear canal and should not be removed unless it causes hearing impairment or discomfort.

Choice D Reason: Using a hairdryer set to low, 6 inches away from ear is part of client teaching, as it can help dry the ear canal after swimming or bathing. External otitis can be treated by applying warm compresses, using topical antibiotics or antifungals, and taking pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.