INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM PEDIATRICS

INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM

ECZEMA

•         atopic dermatitis -  often the first sign of an allergic predisposition in a child

•         usually manifests during infancy

Asssessment:

•         erythema, weeping vesicles that rupture and crusts

•         severe pruritus; scratching causes thickening and darkening

•         dry skin, sometimes urticaria

Intervention:

•         topical steroids

•         antihistamines

•         coal tar preparation

•         colloid baths

•         diet therapy:  elimination of offending food

Nursing Intervention:

•         avoid heat and prevent sweating

•         check materials in contact with child’s skin (sheets, lotions, soap)

•         avoid frequent baths

•         avoid use of soap

•         provide lubricant immediately after bath

•         administer topical steroids as ordered

•         use cotton instead of wool

•         keep child’s nails short; use elbow or glove restraints if needed

•         apply wet saline or Burrow’s solution compresses

DIAPER RASH

•         contact dermatitis

•         plastic/rubber pants and linings of disposable diapers

            exacerbate the condition by prolonging contact with

            moist, warm environment

•         skin further irritated by acidic urine

Assessment:

•         erythema/excoriation in the perineal area

•         irritability

Nursing intervention:

•         keep area clean and dry; clean with mild soap and water after each stool and soon as child urinates

•         take off diaper and expose area to air during the day

•         client teaching:

1. Proper hygiene
2. Avoid use of plastic pants or disposable diapers with a plastic lining
3. Avoid commercially prepared diaper wipes containing alcohols
4. Avoid cornstarch; good medium for bacteria