Question

a nurse is caring for an infant who has diaper dermatitis. which of the following actions should the nurse take?

change to cloth diapers until the skin is healed.
use a moisturizer to wipe urine from the skin.
apply a light layer of talcum powder with each diaper change.
expose the excoriated area to hot air frequently.

Explanation:

Analyze the clinical scenario

The patient is an infant with diaper dermatitis (diaper rash). The nurse needs to select the most appropriate intervention to promote healing and prevent further skin irritation.

Evaluate the first option

"Change to cloth diapers until the skin is healed."
Cloth diapers are generally less absorbent than modern disposable gel-matrix diapers. Keeping wet cloth against compromised skin can worsen diaper dermatitis by maintaining a moist environment.

Evaluate the second option

"Use a moisturizer to wipe urine from the skin."
Using a moisturizer or a mild barrier cream/cleanser to gently clean urine off the skin is a recommended practice. It avoids the friction of harsh wiping while protecting the skin barrier.

Evaluate the third option

"Apply a light layer of talcum powder with each diaper change."
Talcum powder is contraindicated in infants due to the high risk of inhalation, which can cause severe respiratory complications or aspiration pneumonia.

Evaluate the fourth option

"Expose the excoriated area to hot air frequently."
Exposing the area to air (air drying) is beneficial, but using hot air (such as from a hair dryer) can cause burns and further dry out or irritate the sensitive, compromised skin.

Determine the best action

Wiping urine gently using a moisturizing barrier or a soft cloth with moisturizer minimizes friction and protects the skin barrier, making it the safest and most effective option among those listed.

Answer:

• Change to cloth diapers until the skin is healed.
• Use a moisturizer to wipe urine from the skin. (Correct answer)
• Apply a light layer of talcum powder with each diaper change.
• Expose the excoriated area to hot air frequently.