What Should the Nurse Do?
Sarah, a 45-year-old female, presents to the dermatology clinic with complaints of persistent itching and rash on her lower legs for the past 2 weeks. She reports a history of atopic dermatitis and seasonal allergies. On examination, Sarah’s lower legs exhibit erythematous, raised, and scaly patches with excoriation marks due to scratching. Her vital signs are within normal limits. Sarah mentions she has tried over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream without relief. Further assessment reveals no signs of infection or systemic illness. Sarah expresses frustration and discomfort due to the persistent symptoms affecting her daily life.
1
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What specific cues from Sarah’s medical history and presenting symptoms suggest a potential exacerbation of her underlying eczema rather than an unrelated dermatological condition?
2
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What nursing interventions and patient education strategies would be appropriate to address Sarah’s symptoms and improve her management of atopic dermatitis?
Ms. Jones, a 45-year-old female, presents to the emergency department after sustaining burns from a kitchen accident at home. She reports experiencing intense pain and redness over her left forearm and hand. Ms. Jones has no significant past medical history except for mild hypertension, for which she takes amlodipine. On assessment, her vital signs are as follows: heart rate 110 bpm, blood pressure 140/90 mmHg, respiratory rate 20 breaths per minute, and temperature 38.5°C (101.3°F). There are partial-thickness burns covering approximately 15% of her total body surface area, concentrated on the left upper extremity. She is also visibly distressed and anxious.
3
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Given Ms. Jones’s symptoms and vital signs, what are the primary concerns regarding her burn injury management?
4
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What nursing interventions can be implemented to address Ms. Jones’s pain and anxiety?
5
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When caring for a patient with impetigo, what nursing interventions might you implement?