The parent of an adolescent tells the clinic nurse, “My child has athlete’s foot. I have been applying triple antibiotic ointment for two days, but there has been no improvement.”. Which instruction should the nurse provide?

Choice A rationale Antibiotics are typically used to treat bacterial infections, not fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Therefore, using antibiotics would not be effective in this case. Choice B rationale While it’s important to use treatments for the full recommended duration to ensure the infection is completely eradicated, using an antibiotic ointment for a fungal infection like athlete’s foot would not be effective. Choice C rationale While it’s true that applying too much ointment can deter its effectiveness, the main issue here is that an antibiotic ointment is not the correct treatment for a fungal infection like athlete’s foot. Choice D rationale Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments. Therefore, keeping the feet dry and clean is an important part of managing and preventing athlete’s foot. This includes wearing clean socks and allowing the feet to dry completely before putting on shoes.