Final answer:
Appropriate action for a nurse when applying a topical corticosteroid like hydrocortisone cream is to apply it sparingly to the affected area. Vigorous rubbing or immediate covering of the site is not recommended. Proper application can reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms, although it may not treat the underlying cause of a condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client is prescribed a topical corticosteroid, the nurse should apply the drug sparingly to the affected area. It is important to clean the area before application, but not necessarily with an antiseptic unless the skin is broken or there is a risk of infection. Vigorous rubbing is not recommended as it may cause further irritation to the skin and while covering the site can be sometimes appropriate, it is not typically done immediately with a sterile cloth without allowing the medication to dry first.
The cortisol-like effects of hydrocortisone help reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of histamine which contributes to the symptoms such as redness swelling, and itching. The proper use of a prescribed hydrocortisone cream can significantly alleviate these symptoms. However if the underlying cause of the condition does not resolve or if there are signs of infection, additional medical evaluation and treatment may be necessary.