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Atopic%20dermatitis Patient Education
Patient Education
- Discuss the chronic nature of atopic dermatitis, exacerbating factors and appropriate treatment options
- Emphasize that atopic dermatitis tends to decrease with increase in age
- Convey the goal of treatment is control rather than “cure”
- Discuss that many factors probably contribute to flare-ups and usually a specific cause cannot be found
- Educate the patient about proper skin care (eg bathing, hydration and use of moisturizers)
- Patient/caregiver should be instructed to apply emollients liberally 3 minutes after taking a bath 2-3 times daily or frequently as the skin gets dry even in the absence of symptoms
- Studies showed that correct and adequate instructions for use and application of moisturizers when done properly reduces disease severity and overall topical corticosteroids use
- Supportive stress-reduction training, including relaxation training and cognitive behavioral therapy and behavioral therapy to stop habitual scratching, should be discussed with the patient
- Explain the importance of therapy adherence, appropriate drug therapy and potential side effects of medications when used over extended periods of time
- Apply topical steroid 10-15 minutes after application of emollients
- Keep fingernails trimmed short
- Use of cotton gloves at night to limit scratching
