A nurse in the emergency department is preparing to discharge a 3-year- old child. Exhibits Which of the following statements should the nurse plan to include in the discharge instructions for the child's guardian? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Keeping the child’s nails trimmed and filed helps prevent excessive scratching that can lead to skin infections and worsening of dermatitis. It reduces the risk of injury to the skin and minimizes the potential for secondary infections from scratching. B. This is a key recommendation for managing atopic dermatitis. Emollients (moisturizers) should be applied immediately after bathing to help lock in moisture and prevent the skin from becoming dry, which can exacerbate the condition. Moisturizing regularly helps to soothe the skin and reduce itching. C. Applying gloves or mittens can be helpful in preventing the child from scratching and irritating the skin. This is especially useful at night to minimize scratching while the child is asleep. D. Using a mild, fragrance-free detergent is important to prevent irritation of the skin. Harsh chemicals and fragrances in regular detergents can exacerbate atopic dermatitis and irritate sensitive skin. E. It is realistic to inform the guardian that atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition with potential flare- ups. Understanding that flare-ups are a normal part of the condition can help the guardian manage expectations and better cope with the condition over time. F. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious. It is an allergic condition related to immune system dysfunction and genetic factors, not an infectious disease. Therefore, it cannot be spread to others. G. While pimecrolimus cream is an effective treatment for atopic dermatitis, it should be applied according to the provider's instructions, which generally involve applying a thin layer rather than a thick layer. Overapplication can lead to potential side effects or diminished effectiveness.