Learning scenario
Learning scenario
Joanna, 43, comes to the counter for advice. She has suffered with eczema in the past, and she has found that her skin is particularly dry at the moment. Joanna explains that it can sometimes become itchy and looks scaly, so she tries to hide it. She wants to manage it now to try and prevent it from getting worse. Through your consultation you identify that she currently uses an ointment when her symptoms flare up, but she finds it quite greasy and messy to use.
What advice could you give to Joanna?
INCORRECT
Joanna should be advised to use an emollient (even when the skin is clear) to help hydrate and restore her skin barrier
INCORRECT
A topical corticosteroid should not be used to manage dry skin. Joanna should use an emollient to help hydrate and restore her skin barrier
CORRECT
People’s preferences vary and she may not have found the right regime to suit her. You could recommend a basic daily regime of an emollient wash and lotion to help manage her dry skin.
INCORRECT
There are no signs to refer to the GP, such as an infection. Self-management of dry skin is advised by the NHS, and Joanna should feel enabled by the pharmacy team to manage her dry skin confidently
REFERENCES
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2. Schofield J et al. (2009), Skin conditions in the UK: a health needs assessment
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11. National Eczema Society, Emollient prescribing for eczema: information for patients. Available at: https://eczema.org/wp-content/uploads/Emollientprescribing-guidance-for-patients-and-primary-care-prescribers.pdf
12. National Eczema Society, Emollients. Available at: www.eczema.org/emollients
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18. Johnson & Johnson. Data on file
19. Johnson & Johnson. Data on file
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21. NHS Health A to Z: Complications atopic eczema, NHS. Available at: www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/complications/
Online references last accessed November 2022
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