A nurse is caring for a client who is incontinent of urine. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Urinary incontinence increases the risk of skin breakdown due to prolonged exposure of the skin to moisture, urine enzymes, and irritants. This can lead to incontinence-associated dermatitis, which compromises skin integrity and increases the risk of infection. Nursing care focuses on protecting the skin, maintaining hygiene, and preventing irritation. Proper skin care strategies are essential to preserve skin integrity and promote comfort in affected clients. Rationale: A. Applying barrier cream to cleansed skin helps protect the epidermis from moisture and irritants found in urine. These protective creams form a physical barrier that reduces skin breakdown and prevents dermatitis. Regular application after cleansing is a standard intervention for maintaining skin integrity in incontinent clients. B. Applying a thin layer of cornstarch is not recommended because it can cake when moist and may promote bacterial or fungal growth. This can increase the risk of skin irritation and infection. Modern wound care guidelines discourage the use of powders in moisture-prone areas. C. Keeping the client’s skin moist is inappropriate because excessive moisture contributes to maceration and breakdown of the skin barrier. Prolonged exposure to urine or moisture increases the risk of pressure injuries and dermatitis. The goal is to maintain clean and dry skin conditions. D. Rinsing the client’s skin with hot water is not recommended because high temperatures can damage skin integrity and cause burns or dryness. Hot water may also increase irritation and discomfort. Lukewarm water is preferred to gently cleanse without harming the skin.