Nurse Bea plans to administer dexamethasone cream to a client who has dermatitis over the anterior chest. How should the nurse apply this topical agent?
A. With a circular motion, to enhance absorption.
B. With an upward motion, to increase blood supply to the affected area.
C. In long, even, outward, and downward strokes in the direction of hair growth.
D. In long, even, outward, and upward strokes in the direction opposite hair growth.
Correct Answer: C. In long, even, outward, and downward strokes in the direction of hair growth
When applying a topical agent, the nurse should begin at the midline and use long, even, outward, and downward strokes in the direction of hair growth. This application pattern reduces the risk of follicle irritation and skin inflammation. One fingertip unit (FTU) is equal to 0.5 grams. The suggested dose of FTU is dependent upon the body region being treated. Topical corticosteroids are recommended for once to twice daily use.
Option A: Topical corticosteroids are administered topically; however, successful administration depends upon obtaining an accurate diagnosis, choosing the correct drug, selecting the appropriate vehicle and potency, and the frequency of application.
Option B: The vehicle is the carrier of the drug. The vehicle selection depends on the region affected and the type of lesion present. It also functions to hydrate the skin and increase absorption. Creams are less potent than ointment but cosmetically more appealing since they leave no residue; the drying, non-occlusive nature leads to their administration for acute exudative inflammation and dermatitis within the intertriginous areas.
Option D: Corticosteroids are better absorbed and more permeable in regions of thin epidermis, such as the eyelid, compared to thicker regions of epidermis, such as the sole. The penetration difference between the two varies by 300 fold. The penetration increases two- to ten-fold in diseased states, such as inflammation and desquamation.
No comments:
Post a Comment