A client with psoriasis is prescribed topical corticosteroids. What will the nurse instruct the client on the use of this medication?

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. "Apply a moist dressing over the medication on the skin."
2. "Wrap the medication and moist dressing with an occlusive covering."
3. "Remove occlusive coverings and wraps every 8 hours."
4. "Ongoing use of this medication will improve healing."
5. "If this medication does not work, you'll need to take oral medications."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,3
Rationale 1: Applying a warm, moist dressing over the medication on the skin is one way to enhance drug penetration.
Rationale 2: Wrapping the site with the medication and moist dressing with an occlusive covering will enhance drug penetration.
Rationale 3: Wraps should not be left in place for longer than 8 hours.
Rationale 4: Repeated use of topical corticosteroids will result in tolerance.
Rationale 5: There are other types of topical medications used to treat psoriasis.
Global Rationale: Applying a warm, moist dressing over the medication on the skin is one way to enhance drug penetration. Wrapping the site with the medication and moist dressing with an occlusive covering will enhance drug penetration. Wraps should not be left in place for longer than 8 hours. Repeated use of topical corticosteroids will result in tolerance. There are other types of topical medications used to treat psoriasis.