Psoriasis

Case study on psoriasis: Patient: Ms. Jane Doe, a 35-year-old female Chief Complaint: Scaly, red patches on her skin History of Present Illness: Ms. Doe presents to her primary care physician with a 2-year history of scaly, red patches on her skin. The patches are most noticeable on her scalp, elbows, and knees. She reports that the patches are itchy and sometimes painful. She has no other medical problems. Past Medical History: None Social History: Ms. Doe is a single, white female who works as a software engineer. She does not smoke or drink alcohol. Physical Examination:

• Vital signs: BP 120/80 mmHg, HR 70 bpm, RR 16 bpm, SpO2 98% on room air
• General: Well-developed, well-nourished female in no acute distress
• HEENT: Pupils equal, round, and reactive to light; Sclerae anicteric
• Neck: No jugular venous distension
• Lungs: Clear to auscultation
• Heart: Regular rate and rhythm, no murmurs, rubs, or gallops
• Abdomen: Soft, non-tender, non-distended; positive bowel sounds
• Extremities: Scaly, red patches on scalp, elbows, and knees

Laboratory Studies:

• Complete blood count: Within normal limits
• Blood chemistry: Within normal limits
• Skin biopsy: Psoriasis

Diagnosis: Psoriasis Treatment Plan:

• Medications:
  • Topical steroids
  • Phototherapy
• Lifestyle modifications:
  • Moisturizing the skin
  • Avoiding triggers such as stress and infection
• Education:
  • Patient education about psoriasis and its treatment
  • Importance of following treatment plan

Nursing Interventions:

• Educate patient about psoriasis and its treatment
• Teach patient how to apply topical medications
• Monitor patient for side effects of medications
• Provide emotional support

Discussion Questions:

1. What are the risk factors for psoriasis?
2. What are the laboratory and diagnostic findings that are consistent with psoriasis?
3. What are the medications that are commonly used to treat psoriasis?
4. What are the lifestyle modifications that can help to reduce the risk of complications from psoriasis?
5. What are the nursing interventions that are important for the care of a patient with psoriasis?

Conclusion: Ms. Doe is a 35-year-old female with a diagnosis of psoriasis. She has been started on medications and has been given education about psoriasis. She will be monitored closely for further complications. Additional Information:

• Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells.
• The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• Symptoms of psoriasis can vary widely and can include scaly, red patches, itching, and pain.
• There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be managed with medications and lifestyle modifications.

Sample Solution

History of Present Illness: Ms. Doe presents to her primary care physician with a 2-year history of scaly, red patches on her skin.