Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

A patient diagnosed with contact dermatitis from poison ivy would be best treated with what method?

1. Washing with antibacterial soap BID

2. Hydrocortisone cream 1% BID

3. Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) cream BID

4. Halcinonide (Halog) 1% ointment BID

The correct answer is: Hydrocortisone cream 1% BID

The treatment for contact dermatitis, particularly from poison ivy, focuses on reducing inflammation and alleviating discomfort. Hydrocortisone cream, a low-potency topical corticosteroid, is effective in managing localized inflammation and itching associated with contact dermatitis. By applying this cream, the patient can help to reduce the inflammatory response triggered by the allergen, in this case, the oil from poison ivy, which contains urushiol. Using hydrocortisone cream 1% topical ointment twice daily can help soothe the affected area, decrease swelling, and relieve pruritus. This approach addresses the immune response directly at the site of contact and is appropriate for mild to moderate cases of contact dermatitis. In contrast, washing with antibacterial soap may help remove urushiol but does not address the inflammatory component of dermatitis. Clotrimazole, an antifungal, is not indicated for allergic responses like contact dermatitis, and halcinonide, while a more potent topical steroid, would generally be reserved for more severe cases. Therefore, the choice of hydrocortisone cream 1% aligns best with the clinical guidelines for treating poison ivy-induced contact dermatitis.