Ms. Jones brings 6-week-old Sam to the clinic because of a bright red rash in the diaper area that has gotten worse since she started putting over-the-counter antibiotic cream on it 3 days ago. Sam is diagnosed with diaper Candida or a yeast infection. Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) topical TID for 14 days to the diaper area has been prescribed.
- Briefly describe the therapeutic actions of Clotrimazole (Lotrimin).
- Develop a teaching plan for Ms. Jones including age-appropriate considerations for Sam.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In this case, a 6-week-old baby named Sam has developed a diaper Candida or yeast infection. Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) topical TID for 14 days has been prescribed to alleviate the symptoms. As a medical professor responsible for designing assignments for medical college students, I will provide answers to the following questions.
1. Briefly describe the therapeutic actions of Clotrimazole (Lotrimin).
Answer:
Clotrimazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal medication that stops the growth of fungi such as Candida by inhibiting fungal cell membrane synthesis. Topical application of Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) to the affected area will relieve symptoms of discomfort, itching, and rash. Clotrimazole is safe, effective, and can be used consistently for 14 days.
2. Develop a teaching plan for Ms. Jones including age-appropriate considerations for Sam.
Answer:
When developing a teaching plan for Ms. Jones, the medical professional should keep in mind the fact that Sam is only six weeks old. The following are some age-appropriate considerations for Sam:
– Explain to Ms. Jones that Sam’s diaper area needs to stay clean and dry to facilitate healing and prevent further infections.
– Advise Ms. Jones on the proper technique for diaper changing. It’s important that Sam’s bottom is cleaned gently with a damp cloth or a wipe and left to air dry before putting on a fresh diaper.
– Advice Ms. Jones to avoid disposable wipes that contain perfumes or alcohol, which may irritate Sam’s skin.
– Explain the correct way to apply the Clotrimazole cream. Ms. Jones should apply a thin layer to the affected area three times daily, preferably after clean and air dry the area.
– Encourage Ms. Jones to complete the 14-day course even if the symptoms improve, as incomplete treatment may result in a recurrence of infection.
– Explain to Ms. Jones the importance of hand hygiene before and after touching Sam’s diaper area or applying the medication to reduce the spread of infection.
