Author Question: A child with eczema has been treated unsuccessfully with a topical glucocorticoid for a year and has ... (Read 113 times)

Mr. Wonderful · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A child with eczema has been treated unsuccessfully with a topical glucocorticoid for a year and has skin atrophy and hypopigmentation. The nurse will suggest discussing which drug with the provider?

a. Higher potency topical glucocorticoids
b. Topical keratolytic agents
c. Topical immunosuppressants
d. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Question 2

A patient with psoriasis has been using a high-potency glucocorticoid. Because of skin atrophy, the provider has ordered a switch to calcitriol (Vecta), a vitamin D3 analog. What will the nurse teach this patient?

a. Calcitriol causes severe photosensitivity.
b. Itching, erythema, and irritation are indications of an allergic reaction.
c. Systemic effects do not occur with this topical agent.
d. You may apply calcitriol to all areas of the skin except the face.

dpost18 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
If topical glucocorticoids fail to treat eczema without causing skin atrophy and hypopigmentation, topical immunosuppressants may be used. Higher potency glucocorticoids will only compound the adverse effects. Topical keratolytic agents are not indicated. Topical NSAIDs are not indicated.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Calcitriol may be applied twice daily to all areas except the face. It does not cause severe photosensitivity. Skin irritation does not occur. Systemic effects may occur.