Lomboy, Heavenly Kyle S. BSN Ii-3
Lomboy, Heavenly Kyle S. BSN Ii-3
Lomboy, Heavenly Kyle S. BSN Ii-3
BSN II-3
ATOPIC DERMATITIS
Definition
Pathophysiology
Dry skin
Itching, which may be severe, especially at night
Red to brownish-gray patches, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck,
upper chest, eyelids, inside the bend of the elbows and knees, the face and scalp
Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
Thickened, cracked, scaly skin Raw, sensitive, swollen skin from scratching.
The exact cause of atopic dermatitis is not known. But some factors are linked to it, such as:
● Blood tests. Your child’s blood may be checked for levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE).
IgE is released by the body's immune system. It’s high in most children with allergies and
with atopic dermatitis. Other blood tests may be done too.
● Skin tests. Skin tests may be done to check for allergies or other skin conditions.
THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT
● Corticosteroid cream or ointment. The cream or ointment is applied to the skin. This is
to help lessen itching and swelling.
● Antibiotic medicine. Liquid or pills may be taken by mouth to treat infection.
● Antihistamine. This medicine may be taken before sleep to help decrease itching and
improve sleep. It comes in liquid or pills and is taken by mouth.
● Calcineurin inhibitor cream or ointment. Cream or ointment is applied to the skin.
This is to help lessen itching and swelling.
● Phototherapy (light therapy). Light therapy may be done in the healthcare provider's
office or at home.
● Immunomodulatory medicine. This is a liquid or pill taken by mouth that affects the
immune system. It may be used when other treatments do not work well. This medicine
may have side effects. Your child will have regular blood tests to check for side effects.
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
● Avoids triggers. Common triggers include irritants (such as wool, soap, or chemicals),
allergens if diagnosed by your healthcare provider, and stress.
● Doesn’t scratch the skin. Try to keep your child from scratching. It can cause worse
symptoms and infection.
● Always has short fingernails. Trim or file your child’s nails to keep them short and
prevent scratching.
● Takes warm baths or showers, not hot. Followed by application of a moisturizer on
damp skin.
● Uses moisturizers. Apply creams or ointments immediately after bathing.
● Wears soft clothing. Don’t dress your child in wool or other rough fabric.
● Keeps cool. Try to keep your child as cool as possible. Getting hot and sweating can
make him or her more uncomfortable.