The 80-year-old woman newly admitted to a long-term care facility complains of intense itching in her axillae and antecubital fossa. There are small red lesions in linear patterns. What condition does the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The intense itching in the axillae and antecubital fossa along with the presence of small red lesions in linear patterns is highly suggestive of scabies, which is a highly contagious parasitic infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabei mite. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by erythema and facial flushing, whereas keratosis refers to a thickening or roughening of the skin due to abnormal cell growth. Pruritus simply means itching, which may be a symptom of various skin conditions including scabies.

The 80-Year-Old Woman Newly Admitted to a Long-Term Care Facility