The nurse instructs a patient about application of corticosteroid cream to an area of contact ...

The nurse instructs a patient about application of corticosteroid cream to an area of contact dermatitis on the right leg. Which patient action indicates that further teaching is needed?
 
  a. The patient takes a tepid bath before applying the cream.
  b. The patient spreads the cream using a downward motion.
  c. The patient applies a thick layer of the cream to the affected skin.
  d. The patient covers the area with a dressing after applying the cream.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with furunculosis. Which nursing action could the nurse delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?
 
  a. Applying antibiotic cream to the groin.
  b. Obtaining cultures from ruptured lesions.
  c. Evaluating the patient's personal hygiene.
  d. Cleaning the skin with antimicrobial soap.

Question 3

The nurse assesses a patient who has just arrived in the postanesthesia recovery area (PACU) after a blepharoplasty. Which assessment data should be reported to the surgeon immediately?
 
  a. The patient complains of incisional pain.
  b. The patient's heart rate is 110 beats/minute.
  c. The patient is unable to detect when the eyelids are touched.
  d. The skin around the incision is pale and cold when palpated.

Question 4

A patient who has severe refractory psoriasis on the face, neck, and extremities is socially withdrawn because of the appearance of the lesions. Which action should the nurse take first?
 
  a. Discuss the possibility of enrolling in a worker-retraining program.
  b. Encourage the patient to volunteer to work on community projects.
  c. Suggest that the patient use cosmetics to cover the psoriatic lesions.
  d. Ask the patient to describe the impact of psoriasis on quality of life.

Question 5

An older adult patient with a squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on the lower arm has a Mohs procedure in the dermatology clinic. Which nursing action will be included in the postoperative plan of care?
 
  a. Describe the use of topical fluorouracil on the incision.
  b. Teach how to use sterile technique to clean the suture line.
  c. Schedule daily appointments for wet-to-dry dressing changes.
  d. Teach about the use of cold packs to reduce bruising and swelling.

Question 6

When assessing a new patient at the outpatient clinic, the nurse notes dry, scaly skin; thin hair; and thick, brittle nails. What is the nurse's best action?
 
  a. Instruct the patient about the importance of nutrition in skin health.
  b. Make a referral to a podiatrist so that the nails can be safely trimmed.
  c. Consult with the health care provider about the need for further diagnostic testing.
  d. Teach the patient about using moisturizing creams and lotions to decrease dry skin.