A nurse is teaching a patient with contact dermatitis of the arms and legs about ways to decrease pruritus. Which information should the nurse include in the teaching plan (select all that apply)?
a. Cool, wet cloths or dressings can be used to reduce itching.
b. Take cool or tepid baths several times daily to decrease itching.
c. Add oil to your bath water to aid in moisturizing the affected skin.
d. Rub yourself dry with a towel after bathing to prevent skin maceration.
e. Use of an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine can reduce scratching.
ANS: A, B, E
Cool or tepid baths, cool dressings, and OTC antihistamines all help reduce pruritus and scratching. Adding oil to bath water is not recommended because of the increased risk for falls. The patient should use the towel to pat (not rub) the skin dry.
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How soon should a drug ordered as "STAT" be administered?
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