The document discusses various types of skin infections including bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. It provides details on common bacterial infections like impetigo, folliculitis, furuncle, carbuncles and cellulitis. The symptoms, causes and treatment options for each of these infections are summarized. Viral infections like warts caused by HPV virus are also discussed along with their different types. Skin infections can range from mild to serious and their diagnosis involves identifying the causative organism through testing of lesion drainage or blood samples.
Children's skin problems span nearly two decades from birth through adolescence. Several common pediatric skin conditions will be discussed including: diaper dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, warts, and acne.
follow me on my YouTube channel :- medic o mania
Children's skin problems span nearly two decades from birth through adolescence. Several common pediatric skin conditions will be discussed including: diaper dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, warts, and acne.
follow me on my YouTube channel :- medic o mania
Fungal skin infections are commonly affect the outer layer of the skin, nails and hair. Most of the fungi causing infections are usually dermatophytes (tinea), yeast (candida) and molds
Jock itch is a common fungal (caused by a fungus) infection similar to ringworm. Jock itch causes an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin around your groin, inner thighs and butt crack (gluteal cleft). Tinea cruris is another name for jock itch. Tinea is another name for ringworm, and cruris means groin.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It is most commonly caused by S. pyogenes and S. aureus.5 Bacteria may gain access to the dermis via a break in the skin barrier in healthy adults, whereas the hematogenous route is more common in immunocompromised patients.
The affected skin is usually erythematous, swollen, painful, and warm to the touch. Severe cellulitis can be complicated by bullae, pustules, or necrotic tissue. Damage to lymphatic vessels can lead to recurrent episodes of cellulitis.6 In areas of the world endemic for lymphatic filariasis, it is important to rule out this disease in cases of recurrent bouts of lower-extremity cellulitis and lymphangitis.
This Presentation Contains Infectious Dermatoses i.e. bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic skin Infections. For Comments write to juma.sammy2@gmail.com
Fungal skin infections are commonly affect the outer layer of the skin, nails and hair. Most of the fungi causing infections are usually dermatophytes (tinea), yeast (candida) and molds
Jock itch is a common fungal (caused by a fungus) infection similar to ringworm. Jock itch causes an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin around your groin, inner thighs and butt crack (gluteal cleft). Tinea cruris is another name for jock itch. Tinea is another name for ringworm, and cruris means groin.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It is most commonly caused by S. pyogenes and S. aureus.5 Bacteria may gain access to the dermis via a break in the skin barrier in healthy adults, whereas the hematogenous route is more common in immunocompromised patients.
The affected skin is usually erythematous, swollen, painful, and warm to the touch. Severe cellulitis can be complicated by bullae, pustules, or necrotic tissue. Damage to lymphatic vessels can lead to recurrent episodes of cellulitis.6 In areas of the world endemic for lymphatic filariasis, it is important to rule out this disease in cases of recurrent bouts of lower-extremity cellulitis and lymphangitis.
This Presentation Contains Infectious Dermatoses i.e. bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic skin Infections. For Comments write to juma.sammy2@gmail.com
Medical Technology Tackles New Health Care Demand - Research Report - March 2...pchutichetpong
M Capital Group (“MCG”) predicts that with, against, despite, and even without the global pandemic, the medical technology (MedTech) industry shows signs of continuous healthy growth, driven by smaller, faster, and cheaper devices, growing demand for home-based applications, technological innovation, strategic acquisitions, investments, and SPAC listings. MCG predicts that this should reflects itself in annual growth of over 6%, well beyond 2028.
According to Chris Mouchabhani, Managing Partner at M Capital Group, “Despite all economic scenarios that one may consider, beyond overall economic shocks, medical technology should remain one of the most promising and robust sectors over the short to medium term and well beyond 2028.”
There is a movement towards home-based care for the elderly, next generation scanning and MRI devices, wearable technology, artificial intelligence incorporation, and online connectivity. Experts also see a focus on predictive, preventive, personalized, participatory, and precision medicine, with rising levels of integration of home care and technological innovation.
The average cost of treatment has been rising across the board, creating additional financial burdens to governments, healthcare providers and insurance companies. According to MCG, cost-per-inpatient-stay in the United States alone rose on average annually by over 13% between 2014 to 2021, leading MedTech to focus research efforts on optimized medical equipment at lower price points, whilst emphasizing portability and ease of use. Namely, 46% of the 1,008 medical technology companies in the 2021 MedTech Innovator (“MTI”) database are focusing on prevention, wellness, detection, or diagnosis, signaling a clear push for preventive care to also tackle costs.
In addition, there has also been a lasting impact on consumer and medical demand for home care, supported by the pandemic. Lockdowns, closure of care facilities, and healthcare systems subjected to capacity pressure, accelerated demand away from traditional inpatient care. Now, outpatient care solutions are driving industry production, with nearly 70% of recent diagnostics start-up companies producing products in areas such as ambulatory clinics, at-home care, and self-administered diagnostics.
Explore our infographic on 'Essential Metrics for Palliative Care Management' which highlights key performance indicators crucial for enhancing the quality and efficiency of palliative care services.
This visual guide breaks down important metrics across four categories: Patient-Centered Metrics, Care Efficiency Metrics, Quality of Life Metrics, and Staff Metrics. Each section is designed to help healthcare professionals monitor and improve care delivery for patients facing serious illnesses. Understand how to implement these metrics in your palliative care practices for better outcomes and higher satisfaction levels.
CHAPTER 1 SEMESTER V - ROLE OF PEADIATRIC NURSE.pdfSachin Sharma
Pediatric nurses play a vital role in the health and well-being of children. Their responsibilities are wide-ranging, and their objectives can be categorized into several key areas:
1. Direct Patient Care:
Objective: Provide comprehensive and compassionate care to infants, children, and adolescents in various healthcare settings (hospitals, clinics, etc.).
This includes tasks like:
Monitoring vital signs and physical condition.
Administering medications and treatments.
Performing procedures as directed by doctors.
Assisting with daily living activities (bathing, feeding).
Providing emotional support and pain management.
2. Health Promotion and Education:
Objective: Promote healthy behaviors and educate children, families, and communities about preventive healthcare.
This includes tasks like:
Administering vaccinations.
Providing education on nutrition, hygiene, and development.
Offering breastfeeding and childbirth support.
Counseling families on safety and injury prevention.
3. Collaboration and Advocacy:
Objective: Collaborate effectively with doctors, social workers, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated care for children.
Objective: Advocate for the rights and best interests of their patients, especially when children cannot speak for themselves.
This includes tasks like:
Communicating effectively with healthcare teams.
Identifying and addressing potential risks to child welfare.
Educating families about their child's condition and treatment options.
4. Professional Development and Research:
Objective: Stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in pediatric healthcare through continuing education and research.
Objective: Contribute to improving the quality of care for children by participating in research initiatives.
This includes tasks like:
Attending workshops and conferences on pediatric nursing.
Participating in clinical trials related to child health.
Implementing evidence-based practices into their daily routines.
By fulfilling these objectives, pediatric nurses play a crucial role in ensuring the optimal health and well-being of children throughout all stages of their development.
CRISPR-Cas9, a revolutionary gene-editing tool, holds immense potential to reshape medicine, agriculture, and our understanding of life. But like any powerful tool, it comes with ethical considerations.
Unveiling CRISPR: This naturally occurring bacterial defense system (crRNA & Cas9 protein) fights viruses. Scientists repurposed it for precise gene editing (correction, deletion, insertion) by targeting specific DNA sequences.
The Promise: CRISPR offers exciting possibilities:
Gene Therapy: Correcting genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis.
Agriculture: Engineering crops resistant to pests and harsh environments.
Research: Studying gene function to unlock new knowledge.
The Peril: Ethical concerns demand attention:
Off-target Effects: Unintended DNA edits can have unforeseen consequences.
Eugenics: Misusing CRISPR for designer babies raises social and ethical questions.
Equity: High costs could limit access to this potentially life-saving technology.
The Path Forward: Responsible development is crucial:
International Collaboration: Clear guidelines are needed for research and human trials.
Public Education: Open discussions ensure informed decisions about CRISPR.
Prioritize Safety and Ethics: Safety and ethical principles must be paramount.
CRISPR offers a powerful tool for a better future, but responsible development and addressing ethical concerns are essential. By prioritizing safety, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring equitable access, we can harness CRISPR's power for the benefit of all. (2998 characters)
Global launch of the Healthy Ageing and Prevention Index 2nd wave – alongside...ILC- UK
The Healthy Ageing and Prevention Index is an online tool created by ILC that ranks countries on six metrics including, life span, health span, work span, income, environmental performance, and happiness. The Index helps us understand how well countries have adapted to longevity and inform decision makers on what must be done to maximise the economic benefits that comes with living well for longer.
Alongside the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva on 28 May 2024, we launched the second version of our Index, allowing us to track progress and give new insights into what needs to be done to keep populations healthier for longer.
The speakers included:
Professor Orazio Schillaci, Minister of Health, Italy
Dr Hans Groth, Chairman of the Board, World Demographic & Ageing Forum
Professor Ilona Kickbusch, Founder and Chair, Global Health Centre, Geneva Graduate Institute and co-chair, World Health Summit Council
Dr Natasha Azzopardi Muscat, Director, Country Health Policies and Systems Division, World Health Organisation EURO
Dr Marta Lomazzi, Executive Manager, World Federation of Public Health Associations
Dr Shyam Bishen, Head, Centre for Health and Healthcare and Member of the Executive Committee, World Economic Forum
Dr Karin Tegmark Wisell, Director General, Public Health Agency of Sweden
ICH Guidelines for Pharmacovigilance.pdfNEHA GUPTA
The "ICH Guidelines for Pharmacovigilance" PDF provides a comprehensive overview of the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines related to pharmacovigilance. These guidelines aim to ensure that drugs are safe and effective for patients by monitoring and assessing adverse effects, ensuring proper reporting systems, and improving risk management practices. The document is essential for professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, regulatory authorities, and healthcare providers, offering detailed procedures and standards for pharmacovigilance activities to enhance drug safety and protect public health.
Telehealth Psychology Building Trust with Clients.pptxThe Harvest Clinic
Telehealth psychology is a digital approach that offers psychological services and mental health care to clients remotely, using technologies like video conferencing, phone calls, text messaging, and mobile apps for communication.
2. INTRODUCTION
• Skin is the largest organ of your body. It is a soft outer covering of an animal, in particular
a vertebrate.
• The skin functions in thermoregulation, protection, metabolic functions and sensation.
• Skin is composed of three primary layers:
1. The epidermis, which serves as a barrier to infection
2. The dermis, which serves as a location for the appendages of skin
3. The hypodermis (subcutaneous adipose layer)
• Its function is to protect from infection. Sometimes the skin itself becomes infected.
• Skin infections are caused by a wide variety of germs, and symptoms can vary from mild
to serious. Mild infections may be treatable with over-the-counter medications and home
remedies, whereas other infections may require medical attention
5. BACTERIAL SKIN INFECTIONS
• Gram positive staphylococcus aureus and beta hemolytic streptococci cause
bacterial infections.
• Primary infection occur if break present in skin present.
• Secondary infection occurs if it followed after already damaged skin or as sign of
systematic infection.
• Predisposing Factors: Moisture, Obesity, Skin disease, Systematic corticosteroids,
Antibiotics, Chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus increase the incidence of
infection.
6. IMPETIGO
• Impetigo is superficial skin infection caused by staphylococci, streptococci or
multiple bacteria,
• It involves exposed areas of body, face, hands, neck and extremities. It is often
called school sores because it most often affects children. It is quite contagious.
• Primary impetigo occurs due to poor hygiene and malnutrition. Secondary
impetigo occurs due to pediculosis capitis (Head lice scabies, herpes simplex,
insect bite or eczema).
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• Impetigo presents with pustules and round, oozing patches which grow larger day
by day
• There may be clear blisters or golden yellow crusts.
7.
8. CONT..
TREATMENT
• Soak moist or crusted areas: Soak a clean cloth in a mixture of half a cup of white
vinegar in a liter of tepid water. Apply the compress to moist areas for about ten
minutes several times a day. Gently wipe off the crusts.
• Antiseptic or antibiotic ointment: apply it two or three times a day to the affected
areas and surrounding skin.
• Oral antibiotics: Oral antibiotics are recommended if infection is extensive,
proving slow to respond to topical antibiotics, or if impetigo is recurrent. The
preferred antibiotic is penicillin antibiotic. The complete course should be taken,
usually at least 7 days.
9. FOLLICULITIS
• Folliculitis means an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles of the skin. It is a
problem that is not usually serious.
• Tiny pus-filled spots (pustules) develop at the hair where friction, moisture, rubbing
or oil is more.
• Common sites for folliculitis are the beard, arms, legs, armpits.
10. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
Superficial folliculitis, which affects the upper part of the hair follicle, may cause:
• Clusters of small red or pus-filled bumps that develop around hair follicles
• Red and inflamed skin
• Itchiness or tenderness
Deep folliculitis starts deeper in the skin surrounding the hair follicle and affects the
entire hair follicle. Signs and symptoms include:
• A large swollen bump or mass
• Pus-filled blisters that break open and crust over
• Pain
11. CONT..
TREATMENT
• Mild folliculitis usually heals on its own in about 2 weeks.
• Warm compresses made with white vinegar solution ease itching & helps healing.
• Medicated shampoo can be used to treat folliculitis on the scalp or beard.
• Antibiotics applied to the skin (mupirocin) or taken by mouth (dicloxacillin).
• Gently wash the infected skin twice a day with antibacterial soap.
• Avoid shaving irritated skin. If must shave, use an electric razor rather than a blade
and apply a soothing aftershave lotion when finished. Also, shave in the direction of
hair growth rather than against it.
• Don't share towels or washcloths
12. FURUNCLE
• Furuncle is another word for "boil." A boil is
a bacterial infection of a hair follicle.
• The infected hair follicle can be on any part
of body. Furuncles mostly occur on body
areas prone to excessive perspiration,
friction and irritation such as back of neck,
thigh, axillae, and perineum or on buttocks.
13. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• Deep, firm, red, raised bump on skin which is 1 – 5 cm in diameter,
• Pain which gets worse as it fills with pus and dead tissue.
• White or yellow centers (pustules)
• Spreading to other skin areas or joining with other boils
• Weeping, oozing, or crusting
• Fatigue
• Fever and general ill-feeling
• Itching before the boil develops
• Skin redness around the boil
14. CONT..
TREATMENT
• Put warm, moist compresses on the boil several times a day to speed draining and
healing.
• Cleanse surrounding skin with antibacterial soap, followed by application of
antibacterial ointment.
• Surgical incision and drainage may be performed.
• Systemic antibiotic therapy is instituted for carbuncles or spreading furuncles.
Analgesia and antipyretics are ordered as necessary.
• Cover mattress and pillows with plastic and wipe daily with a disinfectant.
• Wash all linens, towels, and clothing after each use.
• Strict hand washing is maintained to prevent cross-contamination.
15. CARBUNCLES
• A carbuncle is a red, swollen, and painful cluster of boils that are connected to
each other under the skin. A carbuncle occurs when a group of hair follicles next
to each other become infected. It is like a multiple boil. Furuncles may progress to
carbuncles.
• Carbuncles found on back of neck, upper arm, buttocks and lateral thighs.
16. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• The boils that collect to form carbuncles usually start as red, painful bumps.
• The carbuncle fills with pus and develops white or yellow tips that weep, ooze, or
crust.
• Untreated carbuncles rupture, discharging a creamy white or pink fluid.
• Superficial carbuncles which have multiple openings on the skin's surface are less
likely to leave a deep scar.
• Deep carbuncles are more likely to cause significant scarring.
• Other carbuncle symptoms include chills, fever, fatigue, and a feeling of general
sickness.
• Swelling may occur in nearby tissue and lymph nodes, especially lymph nodes in the
neck, armpit, or groin.
17.
18. CELLULITIS
• Cellulitis is an inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue resulting from a
generalized bacterial infection.
• Cellulitis appears as a swollen, red area of skin that feels hot and tender.
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
• Staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria
• Cracks or peeling skin between the toes
• Weakened immune system
• Injury or trauma with a break in the skin (skin wounds)
• Insect bites, animal bites.
• Ulcers from certain diseases, including diabetes and vascular disease.
• Use of corticosteroid medications or medications that suppress the immune system
• Intravenous drug use
• Obesity
• Wound from a recent surgery
19. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Skin redness or inflammation (Swelling)
• Warm skin in the area of redness
• Fever with chills
• Malaise
• Headache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Tight, glossy, stretched appearance of the skin
• Hair loss at the site of infection
• Joint stiffness caused by swelling of the tissue over the joint
20. CONT..
TREATMENT
• Topical/systemic antibiotics are prescribed according to culture and sensitivity test
results.
• Debridement of nonviable tissue is necessary if there is an open wound.
• Systemic antibiotics are indicated if fever and lymphadenopathy are present.
• Warm, moist compresses may be ordered.
• Immobilization and raise the infected area higher than heart to reduce swelling
• Wash wound daily with soap and water
• Moisturizing and lubricating skin regularly helps prevent cracking and peeling.
• Wear appropriate footwear and gloves.
• Regularly check feet for signs of injury.
• In severe cases: Hospitalization required
21. DIAGNOSIS OFALL BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
Lesion drainage and blood culture tested to identify causative organism. Drug
sensitivity also checked.
In case of repeated bacterial infections. Culture is taken from external nares to
determine carriers of bacteria (MRSA).
22. VIRAL SKIN INFECTIONS
• Viral infections are common and can occur anywhere in body.
• They range from the common to the rare, from the mild to the severe and
from localized skin infection to systemic disease.
• The principle site of attack in the skin is the epidermis.
23. ETIOLOGY
• Birth control pills and corticosteroids have immune-suppressive properties.
• Antibiotics also kill normal skin flora of bacteria that serve as resistance
against virus.
24. WARTS
• Warts are small, usually painless growths on the skin. Most of the time
warts are harmless.
• They are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Warts found on mucous membrane and genital skin of humans.
• All warts can spread from one part of your body to another. Warts may be
spread from person to person but this is uncommon.
25.
26. CONT..
TYPES
1. Common wart (Verruca vulgaris): most commonly appears on fingers. They
grow above the skin surface and they are usually dome shaped.
2. Planter warts (Verruca plantaris): occur on bottom surface of foot. They grow
inwards as pressure of shoes or walking prevents its outward growth. These
warts extend deeper beneath the skin
3. Flat wart (verruca plana): They are flat lesion present on forehead or dorsum
of the hand
4. Condylomata acuminata or venereal warts: occur in moist areas - Glans of
penis, anal region, on vulva & cervix. They are pink or purple in color and have
cauliflower appearance.
27.
28.
29. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• Most warts are raised with a rough surface. They may be round or oval.
• The spot where wart grows may be lighter or darker than the other skin. Rarely,
warts are black.
• Some warts have smooth or flat surfaces (very rare).
• Some warts may cause pain.
30. CONT..
TREATMENT
1. Chemicals:
• Typical chemicals like salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid, 5-
• fluorouracil, cantharidin, tretinoin etc. are used.
• Flat warts are often treated with peeling agents such as tretinoin or salicylic
acid. Imiquimod can be used for the treatment of genital warts.
• Chemicals usually require multiple applications over several weeks to months.
• Applied every 12-24 hours and warts disappear within 2-3 days.
31. CONT..
TREATMENT
2. Freezing (Cryotherapy): Freezing is safe. Warts may be frozen with various
commercial freezing probes or with liquid nitrogen sprayed on or applied with a
cotton swab. Cryotherapy is often used for plantar warts, and warts under the
fingernails.
3. Burning and Cutting: These methods are effective but are more painful and
usually leave a scar. A laser or electrical current is used to burn warts off.
32.
33. CONT..
PREVENTION
Avoiding cross-contamination can reduce the risk of spreading warts.
• Don't bite fingernails: Warts occur more often in skin that has been broken.
Nibbling the skin around fingernails opens the door for the virus.
• Groom with care: In order to avoid spreading the virus, don't brush, clip, comb or
shave areas that have warts.
• Don't pick at warts: Picking may spread the virus. Consider covering warts with an
adhesive bandage to discourage picking.
• Keep hands dry: Warts are more difficult to control in a moist environment.
34. HERPES SIMPLEX
Herpes simplex virus infection is a common viral infection Of the skin that tends to
recur repeatedly. It is also called fever blister or cold sore.
There are two types of herpes simplex:
1. Type I virus (HSV-I), which occurs above the waist on lips, face and mouth and
causes a fever blister or cold sore.
2. Type Il virus (HSVII), which occurs below the waist and causes genital herpes.
MODES OF TRANSMISSION
• It is transmitted by direct contact, respiratory droplet, or contact with virus containing
fluid-saliva or cervical secretions in the form of kissing and sexual activity.
• Trauma, sunlight, menses, stress and systematic infection often cause reoccurrence of
infection.
35. CONT..
CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
• Burning and tingling sensation at the site for a few hours before eruption.
• Area becomes erythematous and swollen
• Vesicles and pustules erupt in 1 to 2 days
• Lesions can burn, itch, and be painful
• Vesicles become pustules, ulcers and crusting until healing occurs in 10-14 days
• Fever, sore throat are systematic manifestations of initial infection
• The patient is contagious until scabs are formed
36. CONT..
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATIONS
• Assess the appearance of lesions.
• Tzanck smear identifies herpes virus.
• Vesicle fluid culture differentiate herpes virus from bacterial infections.
37. CONT..
TREATMENT
• There is no complete cure for herpes simplex.
• Topical acyclovir (Zovirax) ointment is the drug of choice for primary lesions, to
suppress the multiplication of vesicles.
• Oral acyclovir may be recommended for severe attacks or immunosuppressed
patients. Lotions, creams, and ointments may be prescribed to accelerate drying and
healing of lesions (e.g., camphor, phenol, alcohol).
• Antibiotics may be indicated for secondary infections.
38. HERPES ZOSTER (SHINGLES)
• Herpes zoster, or shingles, is an acute inflammatory viral infection that produces a
painful vesicular eruption along the distribution of nerves from one or more posterior
ganglia. This eruption follows the course of the cutaneous sensory nerve and is almost
always unilateral.
• It's caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes
chickenpox. The rash most often appears as a band of rashes or blisters in one area of
the body.
39.
40.
41. Where does shingles come from?
When you have chickenpox as a child, your body fights off the varicella-zoster virus
and the physical signs of chickenpox fade away, but the virus always remains in your
body. In adulthood, sometimes the virus becomes active again. This time, the varicella-
zoster virus makes its second appearance in the form of shingles.
42. CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
• Previously suffered from chicken pox
• Most common in the elderly people above 60 years.
• With a weakened immune system (such as people with cancer, HIV, organ transplant
recipients or those receiving chemotherapy).
• Patient injury to the spine or a cranial nerve
• Who are under stress.
43. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
• Herpes virus reactivate Varicella virus (latent infection present in spinal nerve
root called the dorsal root ganglion)
• When latent infection reactivated — Virus travel by way of peripheral nerves
to skin
• Virus multiples and create blisters
44.
45. STAGES
• First, a few days before the rash appears, there may pain in an area
on the skin. The pain is described as itching, burning, stabbing or
shooting.
• Next, the raised rash appears as a band or a patch, usually on one
side of body. The rash usually appears around waistline or on one
side of face, neck, or on the trunk (chest/abdomen/back), but not
always. It can occur in other areas including arms and legs.
• Within three to four days, the rash develops into red, fluid-filled,
painful, open blisters.
• Usually, these blisters begin to dry out and crust over within about
10 days.
• The scabs clear up about two to three weeks later.
• It can take three to five weeks from the time begin to feel
symptoms until the rash totally disappears.
46. CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS
Early symptoms of shingles may include:
• Fever.
• Chills.
• Headache.
• Feeling tired.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Stomach upset.
Other signs and symptoms that appear a few days after the early symptoms include:
• An itching, tingling or burning feeling in an area of skin.
• Redness on skin in the affected area.
• Raised rash in a small area of skin.
• Fluid-filled blisters that break open then scab over.
• Mild to severe pain in the area of skin affected.
47. DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS
Distribution or appearance of the rash: The blisters of a shingles rash usually
appear in a band on one side of your body.
Shingles also may be diagnosed in a laboratory using scrapings or a swab of the
fluid from the blisters.
48. TREATMENT
There is no cure for shingles but there are treatments for managing the symptoms.
Treatment is aimed at controlling the outbreak, reducing pain and discomfort, and
preventing complications.
• Antiviral drugs: such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir
(Valtrex), interfere with viral replication.
• Pain management: aspirin, acetaminophen, NSAIDs, opioids are useful during the
acute stage.
• Topical steroids should not be applied if a secondary infection is present because they
suppress the immune system.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone may be prescribed if shingles affects the
eyes or other parts of the face.
• Antihistamines are administered to control itching.
• Antibiotics are prescribed for secondary bacterial infections.
49. NURSING MANAGEMENT
Nursing Diagnosis:
1. Acute Pain may be related to presence of localized inflammation and open
lesions, possibly evidenced by verbal reports, distraction behaviors, and
restlessness.
2. Risk for [secondary] Infection: risk factors may include broken/traumatized
tissue, altered immune response, and untreated infection/ treatment failure.
3. Risk for ineffective sexuality pattern: risk factors may include lack of
knowledge, and/or fear of transmitting the disease.
50. CONT..
Nursing interventions
• Monitor location, duration and intensity of pain. Monitor for adverse effects of
pain medications.
• Assess patient's level of discomfort and medicate as prescribed.
• Encourage distraction techniques such as music therapy.
• Teach relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle
relaxation, and imagery, to help control pain.
• Administer antiviral medication in dosage prescribed (usually high dose).
51. CONT..
• Apply antibacterial ointments (after acute stage) as prescribed, to soften and
separate adherent crusts and prevent secondary infection.
• Teach patient to use proper hand-washing technique, to avoid secondary infection.
• Advice the patient to observe signs of systematic infection i.e. fever, malaise,
headache, increased redness, formation & drainage of pustules.
• Maintain strict isolation.
• Wear gown & gloves if contact has to be established with patient.
• Keep patient’s room cool and avoid heavy clothes and bedding.
52. COMPLICATIONS
• Postherpetic neuralgia: After the shingles rash has disappeared, there might
continue to have nerve pain in that same area, last for months or years and become
quite severe. More than 10% of people who get shingles develop postherpetic
neuralgia. It may be that nerves become more sensitive or that the virus may be
invading and damaging the central nervous system.
• Other complications include:
• Other types of nerve issues like numbness or itching.
• A bacterial infection of the shingles rash.
• Eye and ear inflammation if the rash is near these organs.