An older adult patient's skin has become progressively drier in recent years, and the patient now describes many of her skin surfaces as being incredibly itchy, all the time.
The nurse who is contributing to this patient's care should encourage the patient to:
A) Use a moderately abrasive material to scratch the affected skin areas.
B) Apply an over-the-counter corticosteroid ointment to the affected regions.
C) Avoid scratching the affected skin areas because this may exacerbate pruritus.
D) Take analgesics to achieve relief from pruritus.
Question 2
A male patient in his 20s has been diagnosed with a chlamydial infection and states that he is terrified at the prospect of having to inform his fiance. In light of this patient's statement, what action should the nurse first perform?
A) Teach the patient assertiveness skills that he can utilize when informing his fiance.
B) Assess the specific reasons why the patient fears this discussion with his fiance.
C) Reiterate the patient's legal and moral obligations for having this discussion with his fiance.
D) Role play the discussion with the patient.
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A diagrammatic section through a typical adult tooth.
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