The nurse notes darker skin pigmentation in the skinfolds of a ...

[Bob-Dole]

The nurse notes darker skin pigmentation in the skinfolds of a middle-aged patient who has a body mass index of 40 kg/m2. What is the nurse's best action?
 
  a. Teach the patient about the treatment of fungal infection.
  b. Discuss the use of drying agents to minimize infection risk.
  c. Instruct the patient about the use of mild soap to clean skinfolds.
  d. Ask the patient about type 2 diabetes or if there is a family history of it.

Question 2

A patient is undergoing psoralen plus ultraviolet A light (PUVA) therapy for treatment of psoriasis. What action should the nurse take to prevent adverse effects from this procedure?
 
  a. Cleanse the skin carefully with an antiseptic soap.
  b. Shield any unaffected areas with lead-lined drapes.
  c. Have the patient use protective eyewear while receiving PUVA.
  d. Apply petroleum jelly to the areas surrounding the psoriatic lesions.

[Melissahxx]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The presence of acanthosis nigricans in skinfolds suggests either having type 2 diabetes or being at an increased risk for it. The description of the patient's skin does not indicate problems with fungal infection, poor hygiene, or the need to dry the skinfolds better.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The eyes should be shielded from UV light (UVL) during and after PUVA therapy to prevent the development of cataracts. The patient should be taught about the effects of UVL on unaffected skin, but lead-lined drapes, use of antiseptic soap, and petroleum jelly are not used to prevent skin damage.