RN Exam Practice
Pharmacological and Parenteral TherapiesQuestion 1244 of 2368

The nurse is preparing to apply a topical antibiotic to impetigo lesions. Which action should the nurse take first?

  1. Remove the crusts with soap and water.
  2. Cover the crusts with an occlusive bandage.
  3. Apply the antibiotic over the crusts.
  4. Allow the crusts to dry for 24 hours.
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Correct answer: Remove the crusts with soap and water.

Crusts must be removed before applying a topical antibiotic so the medication is absorbed.

Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Other Childhood Disorders: Implementation (Take Action). Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026