An 18-month-old girl is diagnosed as having atopic dermatitis. When interviewing her parents, they describe the following care measures. Which one would lead you to think more health teaching is needed?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale Applying alcohol to the lesions of atopic dermatitis is contraindicated. Alcohol is a drying agent and can further irritate and damage the already compromised skin barrier. This action would worsen the skin condition and cause pain, indicating a need for health teaching on appropriate skin care measures for atopic dermatitis. Choice B rationale Applying hydrocortisone cream is an appropriate treatment for atopic dermatitis. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching associated with the condition. It works by suppressing the immune response in the skin, which helps to alleviate the redness and irritation of the lesions. Choice C rationale Applying Eucerin cream, which is a moisturizer, after a bath is a beneficial practice. Moisturizers help to lock in water and restore the skin's barrier function, which is compromised in atopic dermatitis. This helps to reduce dryness, itching, and the frequency of flare-ups. Choice D rationale Giving a daily bath without using soap is a recommended practice. The goal is to avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Using a non-soap cleanser or simply bathing in plain water helps to maintain skin hydration and health