Pressure Injuries
Name 3 causes of pressure injuries (etiology)
1. Pressure
2. Friction
3. Shear
What is the mechanism of action of anthralin?
Slows epidermal division
How can contractures be prevented in a patient that has suffered major burns?
An exercise program begins 24-48hrs post burn
Splinting
Proper positioning
Describe in medial terms what herpes simplex virus looks like/feels like
Vesicles, pustules
Burn, itch
Describe what basal cell caricnoma looks like
Small pearly papule
Rolled or waxed edge, depressed center
Teleangiectasia
Crusting ulceration
Name 3 nursing interventions to prevent pressure injuries
1. Turn Q2hrs
2. Shift weight q15 minutes
3. Maintain proper nutrition
4. Maintain proper hydration
5. Pad bony prominences
6. Use lift sheet
7. Keep heels off bed
What are two potential adverse effects of topical corticosteroids?
Thinning skin
Hypopigmentation
In a patient that suffers a major burn discuss what occurs in relation to fluid balance
Increased capillary permeability which leads to leakage of plasma proteins, edema. Can result in hypovolemic shock
What is the etiology of herpes zoster?
It is reactivation of varicella (chickenpox virus). This virus lies dormant in your nervous system
Name 3 symptoms of scabies
Itching
Rash
Burrows fingers/webs/axillae, umbilicus, groin, genitals
+/-crust/scales
Symptoms can take 4 weeks to present
What is mechanical debridement? Give one example
1. scissors and forceps
2. Whirlpool bath
3. Wet to dry dressings
If a patient is prescribed a coal tar preparation for psoriasis when should it be applied?
At nighttime and cover body areas
In a patient that has suffered a major burn what renal implications can you expect
2. At risk for intrarenal failure due to rhabdomyolysis
What type of medication might a patient with herpes simple virus be prescribed? (Be specific)
Antiviral
e.g. acyclovir (Zovirax)
What is the most common type of skin cancer?
Basal cell carcinoma
What is the purpose of wound vac therapy?
Can help heal large wounds. It stimulates collagen synthesis, and helps remove fluid from wounds. It applies negative pressure to the wound.
A patient that is prescribed UV light therapy for psoriasis maybe prescribed this medication that induces photosensitivity
Oral Psoralen
If a patient was in a house fire and suffered no burns what symptoms would make you believe they are at risk for an inhalation injury? Name at least 2
Cough with black tinged sputum
Hoarse voice
Singed facial hair
Burns on face/neck
Vesicles, plaques
Usually unilateral
Dermatomal pattern
Itching/fever/malaise/pain
List 3 risk factors for skin cancer
1. Fair skin
2. Sun/UV light
3. Hx of radiation therapy
4. Immunosuppressant medication
5. Genetic tendency
6. Chemicals e.g. coal tar, arsenic
Describe a stage II pressure injury
Partial thickness skin loss, exposed epidermis. May appear as intact or ruptured blister
If a patient is prescribed Methotrexate discuss labs that should be monitored. List 3
2. Liver function
3. CBC
Why would an escharotomy be done for a circumferential burn?
To restore blood flow
Discuss nursing education for a patient who has tinea capitis
This is contagious. Avoid sharing headgear, pillows, brushes, combs, hats
How is pediculosis pubis transmitted? (Name 2 modes of transmission)
Sexual contact, bed linens