A test bank on fundamentals of nursing NCLEX with practice questions and correctly illustrated answers covering  nursing topics in this set include constipation, bowel elimination 1. Question The most important nursing intervention to correct skin dry

A test bank on fundamentals of nursing NCLEX with practice questions and correctly illustrated answers covering  nursing topics in this set include constipation, bowel elimination 1. Question The most important nursing intervention to correct skin dryness is:  A. Consult the dietitian about increasing the patient’s fat intake, and take necessary measures to prevent infection.  B. Ask the physician to refer the patient to a dermatologist, and suggest that the patient wear home-laundered sleepwear.  C. Encourage the patient to increase his fluid intake, use non-irritating soap when bathing the patient, and apply lotion to the involved areas.  D. Avoid bathing the patient until the condition is remedied, and notify the physician. Correct Answer: C. Encourage the patient to increase his fluid intake, use non-irritating soap when bathing the patient, and apply lotion to the involved areas. Dry skin will eventually crack, ranking the patient more prone to infection. To prevent this, the nurse should provide adequate hydration through fluid intake, use non irritating soaps or no soap when bathing the patient, and lubricate the patient’s skin with lotion. In most cases, dry skin responds well to lifestyle measures, such as using moisturizers and avoiding long, hot showers and baths. Moisturizers provide a seal over the skin to keep water from escaping. Apply moisturizer several times a day and after bathing. Option B: The attending physician and dietitian may be consulted for treatment, but home-laundered items usually are not necessary. Natural fibers, such as cotton and silk, allow the skin to breathe. But wool, although natural, can irritate even normal skin. Wash clothes with detergents without dyes or perfumes, both of which can irritate the skin. Option C: Increasing fat intake is unnecessary. Hot, dry, indoor air can parch sensitive skin and worsen itching and flaking. A portable home humidifier or one attached to the furnace adds moisture to the air inside the home. Be sure to keep the humidifier clean. It’s best to use cleansing creams or gentle skin cleansers and bath or shower gels with added moisturizers. Choose mild soaps that have added oils and fats. Avoid deodorant and antibacterial detergents, fragrance, and alcohol. Option D: Bathing may be limited but need not be avoided entirely. Long showers or baths and hot water remove oils from the skin. Limit  baths or showers to five to 10 minutes and use warm, not hot, water.