A client with psoriasis returns to the clinic reporting the persistence of several silvery, scaly areas on the elbows and palms that frequently burn and sometimes bleed.
Which prescription should the nurse teach the client to use for the skin condition?
Colloidal oatmeal-based lotion.
Topical corticosteroids.
Topical analgesics.
Topical antifungal.
The Correct Answer is B
A Colloidal oatmeal-based lotion: Colloidal oatmeal can help to reduce itching and swelling, all while hydrating the skin. It is often used to soothe irritated skin and can be incorporated into a skincare routine through oatmeal baths or oatmeal-infused moisturizers. However, it is typically used as a complementary treatment and may not be sufficient to manage psoriasis symptoms on its own.
B Topical corticosteroids: These are an essential tool for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis34. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the production of skin cells, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling. Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.
C. Topical analgesics: These are primarily used to relieve pain. While they may provide some relief from discomfort associated with psoriasis, they do not address the underlying inflammation and rapid skin cell production that characterize this condition.
D Topical antifungal: Antifungal agents are typically used to treat conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis, or in areas where psoriasis involves folds in the skin, where there is an increased potential for localized infection. However, they are not typically used as a primary treatment for psoriasis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Colloidal oatmeal-based lotions can be soothing and moisturizing for dry, itchy skin, but they are not effective in treating the inflammation and scaling associated with psoriasis.
They do not address the underlying hyperproliferation of skin cells that is characteristic of psoriasis.
While they may provide temporary relief of symptoms, they are not a long-term solution for managing the condition.
Choice B rationale:
Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for psoriasis.
They work by reducing inflammation, slowing the growth of skin cells, and easing itching and scaling. They come in a variety of strengths and formulations, including creams, ointments, gels, and foams.
The type of corticosteroid and the strength of the medication will depend on the severity of the psoriasis and the location of the lesions.
It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions for use carefully, as overuse of topical corticosteroids can lead to side effects such as thinning of the skin and rebound flares.
Choice C rationale:
Topical analgesics, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, can be used to temporarily relieve pain and itching associated with psoriasis.
However, they do not address the underlying inflammation and scaling, and they should not be used as a primary treatment for the condition.
They may be used as adjunctive therapy in conjunction with topical corticosteroids or other psoriasis medications.
Choice D rationale:
Topical antifungal medications are used to treat fungal infections of the skin, such as athlete's foot or ringworm. They are not effective in treating psoriasis, which is an autoimmune condition rather than a fungal infection.
Using a topical antifungal medication for psoriasis could potentially worsen the condition or lead to other skin problems.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A: Dysrhythmia
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is experiencing a dysrhythmia.
Dysrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, and medications.
While it is possible that the patient could develop a dysrhythmia as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, enalapril, which the patient is taking for hypertension, is not typically associated with an increased risk of dysrhythmias.
Rationale for Choice B: Toxicity
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is experiencing toxicity.
Toxicity can be caused by a variety of substances, including medications, drugs, and environmental toxins.
While it is possible that the patient could develop toxicity as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, the patient's medication regimen of enalapril and a multivitamin is not typically associated with an increased risk of toxicity.
Rationale for Choice C: Anemia
There is no information in the question stem to suggest that the patient is anemic.
Anemia is a condition in which there is a decreased number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
While it is possible that the patient could develop anemia as a complication of pneumonia, there is no evidence to support this in the given information.
Additionally, the patient's surgical history of adenoid removal and a fractured tibia is not typically associated with an increased risk of anemia.
Rationale for Choice D: Pneumonia
The patient is a 51-year-old male with a diagnosis of pneumonia.
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
The patient's symptoms, such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, are all consistent with a diagnosis of pneumonia.
Additionally, the patient's medical history of hypertension does not rule out pneumonia, and in fact, some studies have shown that hypertension may be a risk factor for developing pneumonia.
Therefore, pneumonia is the most likely condition that the patient has based on the information provided.
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