The nurse is planning care for a child who is suffering from persistent itching due to scabies. Which measure should the nurse implement to minimize this child's risk for complications?

A. Monitor for desquamation and normal flora overgrowth: While monitoring skin integrity is important, this does not directly prevent the primary complication of scabies, which is secondary bacterial infection from scratching. B. Wash skin between application of topical antiparasitic doses: Washing between doses can remove the medication prematurely, reducing its effectiveness. The lotion should remain on for the prescribed time before being washed off. C. Keep the child's nails short and encourage use of hand mittens: Trimming nails and using mittens reduce scratching and skin breakdown, which lowers the risk of bacterial superinfection, the main complication of scabies in children. D. Shave the body hair before applying the scabicide lotion: Shaving is not recommended, as scabicide is effective when applied to the skin surface. Shaving may cause irritation and increase discomfort without improving treatment outcomes.