A patient with atopic dermatitis has been using a high-potency topical corticosteroid ointment for several weeks. The nurse should assess for which adverse effect?
a. Thinning of the affected skin
b. Alopecia of the affected areas
c. Reddish-brown discoloration of the skin
d. Dryness and scaling in the areas of treatment
ANS: A
Thinning of the skin indicates that atrophy, a possible adverse effect of topical corticosteroids, is occurring. The health care provider should be notified so that the medication can be changed or tapered. Alopecia, red-brown discoloration, and dryness/scaling of the skin are not adverse effects of topical corticosteroid use.
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