Final answer:
The nurse's next action after applying an antifungal cream for athlete's foot is to apply clean dry socks to protect the area and limit the spread of the infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
After applying an antifungal cream to an 85-year-old man with athlete's foot, the nurse's next action should be to apply clean dry socks. This will help to protect the area and reduce the risk of spreading the infection. It is essential to maintain good hygiene and dryness to prevent the growth and spread of fungal infections. Medication such as clotrimazole is often used to treat fungal skin infections and is applied topically. However, if the medication does not appear to be working, or if there is a reoccurrence of the infection, a healthcare provider should be consulted for further advice and treatment options.