Priority Decision: A 46-year-old African American patient is scheduled to have a basal cell carcinoma on his cheek excised in the health care provider’s office. What factor is most important for the nurse to obtain in the patient's history?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prior treatments for the lesion. This is important to determine the effectiveness of previous treatments and any potential complications. It helps guide the current treatment plan and avoid any adverse reactions. A: Protected sun exposure is not the most important factor as the focus is on the lesion and its treatment, not general sun exposure. B: Radiation treatment for acne is not relevant to the current situation of excising a basal cell carcinoma. D: Exposure to harsh irritants such as ammonia is not directly related to the management of the basal cell carcinoma lesion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because laser surgery is commonly used for fine wrinkle reduction or facial lesion removal. Laser treatments target specific skin issues like wrinkles or lesions by resurfacing the skin or removing unwanted tissue. A - Preauricular lesion: Laser surgery is not typically used to treat lesions in this area. B - Redundant soft tissue conditions: Laser surgery is not the primary treatment for this condition. C - Obesity with subcutaneous fat accumulation: Laser surgery is not used to treat obesity or fat accumulation. In summary, laser surgery is specifically effective for fine wrinkle reduction or facial lesion removal due to its precision and targeted approach.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Antibiotics, such as cephalexin, and over-the-counter analgesics. Antibiotics are essential for treating cellulitis, as the condition is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Cephalexin is commonly used due to its effectiveness against the pathogens involved. Over-the-counter analgesics help manage pain and inflammation associated with cellulitis. A: Petrolatum and vitamins A and D ointment do not address the bacterial infection causing cellulitis and do not provide the necessary treatment. C: Weight-bearing exercises and diuretics are not appropriate for treating cellulitis, as they do not target the underlying infection. D: Wet to dry dressings and steroids are not recommended for cellulitis treatment as they do not address the bacterial infection and may even worsen the condition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: The key information here is an irritated, erythematous area on Mrs. Stevens' left hand. Step 2: The most likely cause is contact dermatitis, often triggered by changes in dish detergent. Step 3: Therefore, it is crucial to first determine if she changed her dish detergent recently. Step 4: If the detergent is the cause, changing back to the previous one can resolve the issue. Summary: - A: Food allergies usually manifest differently and are less likely to cause localized skin irritation. - B: Anaphylaxis presents with severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, not just skin irritation. - D: Strange animals are unlikely to cause localized skin irritation unless a specific allergy is known.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: apply plastic wrap occlusive dressings. This method helps enhance the penetration of the topical steroid into the skin, increasing its effectiveness. Occlusive dressings create a barrier that traps moisture and heat, promoting better absorption. Leaving the lesion open (A) would not optimize the medication's effects. Loose gauze dressings (C) may not provide sufficient occlusion. Thoroughly washing and reapplying lotion (D) four times daily would not ensure consistent steroid application or occlusion.