Chapter 46: Eczematous Dermatitis

Buttaro: Primary Care: A Collaborative Practice, 6th Edition

Multiple Choice

1. Which is the primary symptom causing discomfort in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD)?

a. Dryness b. Erythema c. Lichenification d. Pruritis

ANS: D a. Calcineurin inhibitors b. Lubricants and emollients c. Oral diphenhydramine d. Prophylactic topical steroids

Itching is incessant, and patients usually develop other signs at the site of itching. None of the other options are associated with AD.

2. A patient diagnosed with atopic dermatitis asks what can be done to minimize the recurrence of symptoms. What will the provider recommend?

ANS: B

Emollients and lubricants are used long-term to reduce flare-ups. Calcineurin inhibitors can be helpful for managing chronic moderate to severe eczema. Oral diphenhydramine helps with symptoms of itching but is not used to prevent symptoms. Corticosteroids should be used sparingly to treat symptoms and stopped once the inflammation has subsided.

NURSINGTB.COM a. Bleach baths twice weekly b. Frequent bathing with soap and water c. Low-dose oral antibiotics d. Topical antibiotic ointments

3. A patient who has atopic dermatitis has recurrent secondary bacterial skin infections. What will the provider recommend to help prevent these infections?

ANS: A

Bleach baths and intranasal mupirocin have been shown to reduce bacterial superinfections of the skin. Frequent bathing with soap and water may increase flare-ups and increase the risk for superinfections. Oral and topical antibiotic prophylaxes are not recommended.