Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

Regarding skin care, which statement is correct for elderly patients?

1. Dry skin should be covered with thin breathable materials.

2. Regular exposure to sunlight is encouraged.

3. Only medicated creams should be applied to the skin.

4. Skin should not be exfoliated at any time.

The correct answer is: Dry skin should be covered with thin breathable materials.

Dry skin is a common issue among elderly patients due to various factors such as reduced sebaceous gland activity, decreased moisture retention, and environmental exposure. Covering dry skin with thin, breathable materials helps protect the skin from external irritants while allowing for airflow. This approach aids in maintaining skin hydration and can prevent further cracking and discomfort. On the other hand, while some sunlight exposure can be beneficial for vitamin D synthesis, excessive sun exposure can damage fragile elderly skin, making option B less suitable. The use of only medicated creams as stated in option C would not address the overall skin care needs or comfort of the patient, as non-medicated moisturizers play a crucial role as well. Lastly, while exfoliation can be beneficial in certain contexts, the sensitivity and fragility of elderly skin mean that it often requires gentler care, which makes option D too restrictive. Thus, the first option stands out as the best practice for addressing the skin care needs of elderly patients.