Nursing Skin Disorders and Dermatitis Overview

Study Notes

Dermatitis

Inflammation of the skin characterized by various types: Contact, Irritant, Allergic, and Atopic.
Common symptoms include pruritis (itching) and rashes or lesions.
Pathophysiology involves skin inflammation.
Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications like hydrocortisone and antihistamines for pruritis.

Acne

A disorder affecting the sebaceous glands, prevalent in young adults and often referred to as acne vulgaris.
Types also include acne rosacea, which is common in older adults.
Pathophysiology involves blocked pores and potential infection.
Treatment commonly involves antibiotics.

Psoriasis

Characterized by plaque formation with red, raised skin and silvery white scales, typically found on the scalp, elbows, and knees.
Pathophysiology is linked to autoimmune processes where the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
Treatment options include anti-immune medications and corticosteroids, but corticosteroids can have side effects such as sodium and water retention.

Impetigo

Symptoms include blisters on the face, neck, hands, and diaper area.
Caused primarily by pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus, both of which are bacteria.

Herpes Simplex (HSV)

Signs include prodromal symptoms like burning and itching, followed by the eruption of vesicles and pustules.
Two types: Type 1 (above the waist) and Type 2 (below the waist).
Pathophysiology involves the herpes virus, which can become dormant and reactivate.
No cure exists, but topical acyclovir is used for treatment.
Transmitted through direct contact, especially during outbreaks.

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus leads to symptoms like vesicles, plaques, pruritis, pain, malaise, and fever.
Treatment includes antivirals (like acyclovir) and analgesics.

Fungal Infections

Common types include Tinea Pedis (athlete’s foot), Tinea Capitis (ringworm of the scalp), Tinea Corporis (ringworm of the body), and Tinea Unguium (nail infection).
Candidiasis (thrush) refers to oral and vaginal yeast infections.
Treatment typically involves antifungal medications.

Pediculosis (Lice)

Types include Pediculosis capitis (head lice), Pediculosis corporis (body lice), and Pediculosis pubis (pubic lice).
Unhatched eggs are referred to as nits.
Treatment includes anti-parasitic washes and removing nits with a comb and vinegar.

Scabies

Caused by female mites; spread is primarily through skin-to-skin contact.
Commonly affects areas between fingers, inner wrists and elbows, axillae, and gluteal creases.
Characteristic burrows appear on the skin.
Treatment involves topical scabicides and antipruritics.

Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease marked by a signature butterfly rash over the cheeks and nose.
Symptoms can worsen with sun exposure.

Description

This quiz explores the pathophysiology, manifestations, and nursing considerations for common skin disorders, infections, and infestations. It notably covers dermatitis types such as contact and allergic. Emphasis is placed on data collection and patient education for effective preventative care.