Question

The nurse is teaching a patient about diagnostic testing for allergic dermatitis. Which statement by the patient demonstrates a correct understanding of the teaching?

a. "A blood test will confirm the presence of abnormal antibodies."
b. "My skin cells will be stained and examined under the microscope."
c. "The rash will be scraped with a razor blade and the flakes cultured."
d. "I will return to have the substances removed and the areas evaluated."

Answer 1

The correct understanding of diagnostic testing for allergic dermatitis is described in statement d, which refers to the removal and evaluation of substances applied during allergy skin testing, specifically the p_rick-puncture skin test (PPST) or an intradermal test.

Step-by-step explanation:

When it comes to diagnostic testing for allergic dermatitis, the correct understanding is reflected in statement d: "I will return to have the substances removed and the areas evaluated." This statement refers to the process of allergy skin testing, a common method used to diagnose type I hypersensitivities. In this testing, allergen extracts are introduced into the skin through a p_rick-puncture skin test (PPST) or an intradermal test. If there is a sensitivity to the allergen, a visual reaction such as a wheal (a raised, itchy bump) and flare (redness) will appear at the site of the allergen introduction, usually within 30 minutes. The PPST is the most convenient and least expensive method, while the intradermal test involves injection into the dermis layer of the skin. The evaluation of the reaction, indicated by the size of the wheal and flare, helps in identifying the allergens responsible for the allergic reactions.