A patient is treated for Phthirus pubis with permethrin 1% lotion. Two days after using the lotion as directed, the patient calls to report increased itching, erythema, and edema of the pubic skin. What will the nurse tell the patient?
A) This is an expected effect of the treatment and will subside.
B) This represents an allergic reaction to the lotion.
C) The patient should ask the provider about using malathion 0.5% lotion.
D) The patient should repeat the permethrin now and contact the provider if no improvement is seen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Permethrin may cause some exacerbation of the itching, erythema, and edema normally associated with pediculosis, so this is expected. It does not indicate an allergic reaction. There is no need to change to another product or to repeat the application.

A Patient Is Treated for Phthirus Pubis with Permethrin 1