Explanation: Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The mite burrows into the skin, laying eggs and causing intense itching and a characteristic rash.

Incorrect choices: a. "Scabies is a bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus." - This statement is incorrect as scabies is caused by a parasitic mite, not a bacterial infection.

c. "Scabies is an autoimmune skin disorder that results in excessive skin shedding." - This statement is incorrect. Scabies is not an autoimmune disorder, and excessive skin shedding is not a characteristic feature of the condition.

d. "Scabies is a fungal infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans." - This statement is incorrect as scabies is caused by a mite, not a fungal infection.

Explanation: One of the hallmark clinical manifestations of scabies is the presence of linear burrows on the skin, which are caused by the mite's burrowing activity. The itching is typically more severe at night.

Incorrect choices: a. Pustules and papules with a honey-colored crust - This description is more characteristic of impetigo, a bacterial skin infection, not scabies.

b. Silvery-white plaques with a predilection for extensor surfaces - This description is typical of psoriasis, not scabies.

d. Raised, red welts with severe pruritus triggered by allergens - This description is more characteristic of urticaria (hives), which is an allergic skin reaction, not scabies.

Explanation: Scabies is primarily transmitted through direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual. The mites do not jump or fly through the air to infect others.

Incorrect choices: a. "Scabies can be transmitted through close personal contact with an infected individual." - This statement is correct. Close personal contact, such as hugging or sexual contact, is a common mode of transmission for scabies.

b. "I can contract scabies by using shared clothing or bedding with someone who has it." - This statement is correct. Scabies mites can survive outside the body for a short time and may be transmitted through shared clothing, bedding, or towels.

d. "I should avoid skin-to-skin contact with someone who has scabies to prevent transmission." - This statement is correct. Avoiding skin-to-skin contact can help prevent the spread of scabies to others.

Explanation: Scabies infestation can occur on various body parts, but the soles of the feet and palms of the hands are less commonly affected due to the thick skin in these areas.

Incorrect choices: a. Scalp and hairline - Scabies infestation rarely affects the scalp and hairline.

c. Elbows and knees - Scabies infestation can occur in various areas, including the elbows and knees, but the soles of the feet and palms of the hands are less commonly affected.

d. Groin and genital area - Scabies infestation can occur in the groin and genital area, but the soles of the feet and palms of the hands are less commonly affected.

Explanation: Scabies mites can be transmitted through shared personal items, such as clothing, towels, and bedding. Avoiding sharing these items can help prevent scabies infestation.

Incorrect choices: a. "Apply topical corticosteroids regularly to the affected areas to prevent scabies." - This statement is incorrect. Topical corticosteroids are used to manage the symptoms of scabies, not to prevent infestation.

b. "Use antibacterial soap for regular handwashing to reduce the risk of scabies." - This statement is incorrect. Scabies is not caused by bacteria, so using antibacterial soap will not prevent infestation.

d. "Keep the skin moisturized with heavy creams or lotions to prevent scabies." - This statement is incorrect. Moisturizing the skin may be beneficial for symptom management but will not prevent scabies infestation.

Explanation: One of the hallmark clinical manifestations of scabies is the presence of linear burrows on the skin, which are caused by the mite's burrowing activity. The itching is typically more severe at night.

Incorrect choices: a. Silvery-white plaques with a predilection for extensor surfaces are characteristic of psoriasis, not scabies.

c. Pustules and papules with a honey-colored crust are indicative of impetigo, not scabies.

d. Raised, red welts with severe pruritus triggered by allergens are typical of urticaria or hives, not scabies.

Explanation: Scabies infestation can occur on various body parts, but the groin and genital area are commonly affected due to the warm and moist environment.

Incorrect choices: a. The scalp and hairline are not typical sites for scabies infestation, although other conditions like head lice can affect this area.

b. Scabies infestation does not specifically target the soles of the feet and palms of the hands.

c. While scabies can affect the elbows and knees, the groin and genital area are more commonly involved.

Explanation: Pediatric scabies presents as excoriated papules and nodules with honey-colored crusts, resulting from intense itching and scratching.

Incorrect choices: a. Petechiae and purpura are indicative of a bleeding disorder or other vascular issues, not scabies.

b. A sandpaper-like rash with "strawberry tongue" is a characteristic finding of scarlet fever, not scabies.

c. Vesicular lesions in a "dewdrop on a rose petal" pattern are typical of chickenpox (varicella), not scabies.

Explanation: The hallmark symptom of scabies infestation is intense itching, which is often worse at night and may be severe enough to interfere with sleep.

Incorrect choices: a. Fever and chills are not typically associated with scabies, although they may be present if a secondary infection develops due to scratching.

b. Numbness and tingling sensation are not typical symptoms of scabies; they may suggest another neurological issue.

d. Muscle weakness and fatigue are not characteristic of scabies and may indicate another underlying condition.

Explanation: The definitive method for confirming scabies infestation is the microscopic examination of skin scrapings, which can reveal the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei mites, eggs, or fecal pellets.

Incorrect choices: a. Skin biopsy may show hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis, but it is not the definitive method for diagnosing scabies. It can help rule out other skin conditions with similar manifestations.

c. The Mantoux test is used for detecting exposure to tuberculosis, not scabies.

d. Serological testing for antibodies against scabies mites is not typically used for diagnosing scabies and may not provide accurate results.

Explanation: Dermoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic tool commonly used in clinical practice to visualize the mites or burrows on the skin surface, aiding in the diagnosis of scabies.

Incorrect choices: a. Culture of skin scrapings is used to identify fungal infections, not scabies.

b. A complete blood count (CBC) may show elevated white blood cell counts (leukocytosis) in response to infection, but it is not specific for diagnosing scabies.

c. A skin biopsy may be performed in some cases, but it is not the primary diagnostic test for scabies.

Explanation: Skin scraping involves applying mineral oil to the skin, followed by scraping off the superficial layer, and then examining the scraped material under a microscope to detect the presence of scabies mites or eggs.

Incorrect choices: a. Tzanck smear is used to examine cells from skin lesions and is not specific for scabies.

b. Patch testing is used to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis and is not specific for scabies.

c. Wood's lamp examination is used to detect certain fungal or bacterial infections, but it is not the primary method for diagnosing scabies.

Explanation: Scabies burrows are commonly found in interdigital spaces (between the fingers and toes) and on the wrists, as these areas offer warm and protected environments for the mites to burrow.

Incorrect choices: a. The face and neck are not typical locations for scabies burrows.

b. Extensor surfaces of the arms and legs are less commonly affected by scabies.

c. While scabies burrows can occur on the chest and back, they are more frequently found in the areas mentioned in the correct choice

Explanation: Topical corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and itching associated with scabies. They are commonly prescribed to provide relief from symptoms.

Incorrect choices: a. Applying hot packs may provide temporary relief, but it can worsen itching and spread the mites to other areas.

b. Over-the-counter antihistamines may have limited effectiveness in managing the intense itching of scabies.

c. Frequent cool showers may help soothe the skin, but they do not address the underlying cause of itching in scabies.

Explanation: During treatment for scabies, it is essential for the client to avoid close personal contact with others to prevent the spread of the mites. This includes avoiding work, school, and other social settings until the treatment is completed and the infestation is resolved.

Incorrect choices: a. Avoiding hugging and shaking hands is appropriate to prevent transmission to others.

b. Avoiding sharing personal items like towels and clothes is important to prevent the spread of scabies to others.

d. Informing sexual partners about the need for treatment is crucial to prevent reinfestation and transmission.

Explanation: Washing the child's clothes and bedding in hot water and drying on high heat can effectively kill the scabies mites and prevent transmission to family members.

Incorrect choices: a. Isolating the child in a separate room is not necessary for managing scabies, and it may lead to emotional distress for the child.

c. Applying a topical antifungal cream is not effective for treating scabies, as it is caused by mites, not fungi.

d. Placing the child in contact isolation is not necessary for managing scabies, as it is not highly contagious and can be managed with appropriate hygiene practices.

Explanation: Applying the scabicidal medication to wet skin can enhance its effectiveness by helping it to penetrate the skin and reach the mites more effectively.

Incorrect choices: a. Oral antibiotics are not prescribed for scabies unless there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection.

b. Moisturizing lotion should not be applied immediately after treatment, as it can reduce the absorption of the scabicidal medication.

d. The client should avoid showering immediately after applying the scabicidal medication to allow it to have enough time to work effectively.

Explanation: Sharing personal items like towels can spread scabies to others, even if the client has started treatment. It is essential for the client to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing clothes and bedding in hot water is a necessary step to kill the mites and prevent reinfestation.

c. Avoiding close contact with family members is important to prevent transmission until the client is treated.

d. Applying the scabicidal cream from head to toe, including under the nails, is a correct application technique to ensure all affected areas are treated.

Explanation: Sharing personal items can spread scabies to others, even if they are not experiencing symptoms. It is essential for the client to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water and drying them on high heat can effectively kill scabies mites and their eggs, preventing reinfestation.

b. Applying the scabicidal cream to the entire body, including under the nails and between fingers and toes, is necessary to ensure all affected areas are treated.

c. Avoiding close personal contact with others is crucial to prevent transmission until the scabies is completely treated and the infestation is resolved.

Explanation: It is essential for the client to complete the full course of prescribed scabicidal treatment, even if itching improves. Stopping the treatment prematurely may lead to incomplete eradication of the mites and possible reinfestation.

Incorrect choices: b. Applying the scabicidal cream again after one week is necessary to ensure all mites are eliminated, including any that may have hatched since the initial treatment.

c. Covering all areas of the body with the scabicidal cream during each application is essential to ensure that all affected areas are treated and the mites are eradicated.

d. Continuing to apply the scabicidal cream even if the rash starts to improve is important to complete the treatment and prevent recurrence.

Explanation: Sharing personal items like towels can spread scabies to others, even if they do not have any skin rashes or symptoms. It is essential for the family member to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing the client's clothes and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat can effectively kill scabies mites and their eggs, preventing transmission to other family members.

c. Vacuuming and cleaning the client's living areas and furniture can help remove any mites that may be present, reducing the risk of reinfestation.

d. Avoiding close contact with the client until the scabies is completely treated is crucial to prevent transmission and spread of the infestation.

Explanation: It is essential for the client to avoid sharing bedding with others during a scabies infestation. Washing the bedding alone may not be sufficient to eliminate the mites and prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Avoiding sharing personal items like towels and clothing is crucial to prevent the spread of scabies to others.

b. Washing hands frequently can help reduce the risk of transmitting scabies to other parts of the body or to others.

c. Avoiding close contact with anyone who has a skin rash or itching is necessary to prevent transmission and spread of the infestation.

Explanation: It is essential for the child to avoid close contact with other children until the scabies is completely treated to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing the child's stuffed toys and belongings in hot water and drying them on high heat can help eliminate any mites that may be present and prevent reinfestation.

b. Applying the scabicidal cream to the child's entire body, including the scalp and neck, is necessary to ensure all affected areas are treated.

c. Keeping the child home from school and other activities until the scabies is treated is crucial to prevent transmission to others and reduce the risk of spreading the infestation.

Explanation: Sharing personal items can spread scabies to others, even if they don't have any skin rashes or symptoms. It is essential for the client to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Avoiding close contact with anyone who has scabies or is experiencing itching is necessary to prevent transmission and spread of the infestation.

b. Washing clothes and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat can effectively kill scabies mites and their eggs, preventing reinfestation.

c. Applying scabicidal cream to itchy or irritated areas of the skin is necessary to treat the infestation and prevent further spread.

Explanation: Wearing gloves and a gown when providing direct care to the client is essential to prevent transmission of scabies to the nurse and other clients. This helps to maintain infection control and prevent further spread of the infestation.

Incorrect choices: b. Sharing personal items with the client is not appropriate as it can spread scabies to others.

c. Allowing the client to use the same restroom facilities as other clients may increase the risk of transmission.

d. Placing the client in a room with another client who also has scabies is not appropriate as it can lead to cross-contamination.

Explanation: Sharing personal items can spread scabies to others, even if they don't have any itching or symptoms. It is essential for the client to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing clothing and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat can effectively kill scabies mites and their eggs, preventing reinfestation.

b. Vacuuming and cleaning living areas and furniture can help remove any mites that may be present, reducing the risk of reinfestation.

c. Continuing to apply scabicidal cream even after symptoms improve is necessary to ensure all mites are eliminated and prevent recurrence.

Explanation: Providing each client with their own set of personal care items and linens helps to prevent cross-contamination and transmission of scabies between clients. This ensures infection control measures are maintained and reduces the risk of spreading the infestation.

Incorrect choices: a. Placing the clients in a common room to socialize and interact with each other may increase the risk of transmission and spread of scabies.

c. Encouraging clients to share personal items is not appropriate as it can spread scabies to others.

d. Allowing clients to use the same bathing facilities without using personal protective equipment may increase the risk of transmission and spread of scabies.

Explanation: Sharing personal items can spread scabies to others, even if they don't have any rashes or symptoms. It is essential for the client to avoid sharing personal items to prevent transmission.

Incorrect choices: a. Washing clothing and bedding in hot water and drying them on high heat can effectively kill scabies mites and their eggs, preventing reinfestation.

b. Applying scabicidal cream to all areas of the skin that are itchy or rashy is necessary to treat the infestation and prevent further spread.

c. Avoiding close contact with family members until the scabies is treated is necessary to prevent transmission and spread of the infestation.

Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Scabies is not a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. With proper treatment, scabies can be cured, and symptoms usually improve within a few days. There is no need for lifelong management unless the client is reinfected or exposed to scabies again.

Incorrect choices: a. This statement is incorrect. Scabies infestation does not typically clear up on its own without treatment. It requires specific medications to eliminate the mites and eggs.

b. This statement is correct. With appropriate treatment, scabies symptoms should improve within a few days.

c. This statement is correct. Once scabies is successfully treated, there should be no reinfestation if the client avoids contact with infested individuals or contaminated items.

Explanation: This statement is incorrect because scabies is not a chronic condition that requires long-term management. With proper treatment, scabies can be completely cured, and symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks. There is no need for ongoing, long-term management and regular use of scabicidal creams.

Incorrect choices: a. This statement is correct. Once treated, scabies is usually completely cured, and symptoms resolve within a few weeks.

c. This statement is correct. Proper treatment for scabies can result in symptom relief within a few days of starting the medications.

d. This statement is incorrect. Scabies is not a self-limiting condition, and it requires specific treatment to eliminate the infestation and relieve symptoms. Without treatment, scabies can persist and spread to others.

More questions

Explanation: Scabies is caused by the infestation of the skin by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The mite burrows into the skin, laying eggs and causing an allergic reaction, which leads to the characteristic symptoms of scabies.

Incorrect choices:

a. Bacteria: Scabies is not caused by bacteria. It is a parasitic infestation caused by a mite.

b. Fungus: Scabies is not caused by a fungus. It is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite.

d. Virus: Scabies is not caused by a virus. It is caused by the infestation of the skin by the scabies mite.

Explanation: Intense itching, especially at night, is a common symptom of scabies infestation. The itching is a result of the body's allergic reaction to the mite and its eggs.

Incorrect choices:

a. High fever: Fever is not a typical symptom of scabies. Itching is the primary symptom.

c. Yellow discoloration of the skin: Yellow discoloration of the skin is not a symptom of scabies. Itching is the main characteristic.

d. Rapid breathing: Rapid breathing is not a symptom of scabies. Itching is the primary complaint.

Scabies is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The mite can also be transmitted through infested clothing, bedding, and furniture.

Incorrect choices:

a. Through respiratory droplets: Scabies is not transmitted through respiratory droplets. It requires direct skin contact.

c. By consuming contaminated food or water: Scabies is not transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is a skin infestation caused by a mite.

d. Through mosquito bites: Scabies is not transmitted through mosquito bites. It requires direct contact with an infected person or infested items.

Explanation: Scabies can affect various areas of the body, but the genital area is a common site of infestation, especially in adults.

Incorrect choices:

a. Scalp: While scabies can occur on the scalp, it is less common than other areas of the body.

b. Elbows: Scabies can occur on the elbows, but it is not a common site of infestation.

d. Sole of the feet: Scabies can occur on the sole of the feet, but it is not a common site of infestation, especially in adults.

Explanation: Scabies is diagnosed by taking a skin scraping from the affected area and examining it under a microscope to identify the presence of the scabies mite or its eggs.

Incorrect choices:

a. Blood test: Scabies is not diagnosed through a blood test. Skin scraping is the preferred method.

b. X-ray: X-ray is not used to diagnose scabies. It is not a suitable method for identifying the mite.

d. Urine analysis: Urine analysis is not used to diagnose scabies. Skin scraping is the standard method for diagnosis.

Explanation: The primary intervention for treating scabies is the use of topical scabicide medications. These medications kill the scabies mites and their eggs, effectively treating the infestation.

Incorrect choices:

a. Applying corticosteroid creams: Corticosteroid creams are used to relieve inflammation and itching but do not treat the underlying scabies infestation.

b. Warm compresses: Warm compresses may temporarily relieve itching but do not eliminate the scabies mites.

c. Over-the-counter antifungal creams: Over-the-counter antifungal creams are not effective in treating scabies, as scabies is caused by a mite, not a fungus.

Explanation: Contact precautions are important for individuals diagnosed with scabies infestation. These precautions involve the use of gloves and gowns to prevent the spread of the mites through direct contact with the person or infested items.

Incorrect choices:

a. Isolation precautions: Isolation precautions are not necessary for scabies infestation. Contact precautions are sufficient.

b. Droplet precautions: Droplet precautions are used for diseases spread by respiratory droplets, not scabies.

d. Airborne precautions: Airborne precautions are used for diseases spread by small particles suspended in the air, not scabies.

Explanation: Scabies infestation can be treated with permethrin cream, which is a topical scabicide that kills the scabies mites and their eggs.

Incorrect choices:

a. Oral antibiotics: Oral antibiotics are not effective in treating scabies, as it is not caused by bacteria.

b. Topical antifungal creams: Topical antifungal creams are not effective in treating scabies, as

scabies is caused by a mite, not a fungus.

c. Bed rest and hydration: Bed rest and hydration are essential for overall health but do not directly treat the scabies infestation.

Explanation: Frequent handwashing is an essential preventive measure for scabies infestation. It helps reduce the risk of acquiring the mites through indirect contact with infested items.

Incorrect choices:

a. Avoiding contact with animals: Scabies is not typically transmitted from animals to humans. It is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

b. Using insect repellent: Insect repellent is not effective in preventing scabies infestation, as it is caused by a mite, not insects.

d. Avoiding crowded places: While avoiding crowded places may reduce the risk of some infections, it does not specifically prevent scabies infestation. Direct contact with an infected person or infested items is the primary mode of transmission.

Explanation: If one member of a household is diagnosed with scabies, all household members should be treated with scabicide medications to prevent the spread of the infestation.

Incorrect choices:

a. Isolate the infected individual in a separate room: While contact precautions are recommended for the infected individual, isolating them in a separate room is not necessary.

c. Wash all household linens in hot water: Washing linens in hot water is recommended to reduce the risk of mites surviving on infested items, but treatment with scabicide medications is the primary preventive measure.

d. Wear personal protective equipment around the infected individual: Contact precautions, including wearing gloves and gowns, are recommended for healthcare providers but not necessarily for household members. Treating all household members is the most effective preventive measure.