The nurse is caring for a patient with psoriasis who is prescribed phototherapy. Which information should the nurse provide to the patient about phototherapy?

Explanation: Psoriasis lesions commonly appear in a symmetrical pattern, affecting similar areas on both sides of the body. For example, if a plaque is present on the right elbow, there is a high likelihood of a corresponding plaque on the left elbow.

Incorrect choices: a. Psoriasis lesions are evenly distributed across the body: Psoriasis lesions are not evenly distributed and tend to cluster in certain areas, such as elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

b. Psoriasis lesions are typically limited to the face and neck: While psoriasis can occur on the face and neck, it is more commonly found on extensor surfaces (elbows and knees) and the scalp.

c. Psoriasis lesions are more commonly found on the left side of the body: There is no evidence to support a preference for the left side of the body in psoriasis distribution. The symmetrical pattern is a more characteristic feature.

Explanation: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which T-cells, a type of white blood cell, become overactive and trigger an inflammatory response. These T-cells promote the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to the characteristic plaques seen in psoriasis.

Incorrect choices: b. B-cells: While B-cells are important components of the immune system, they are not primarily involved in the etiology of psoriasis. T-cells are the central players in the autoimmune response seen in psoriasis.

c. Platelets: Platelets are primarily responsible for blood clotting and are not directly related to the development of psoriasis.

d. Eosinophils: Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in immune responses against parasitic infections and allergic reactions. While they are important in certain immune processes, they are not the main players in psoriasis etiology.