Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

In what situation should a nursing assistant refrain from applying lotion?

1. On all dry skin

2. For residents not undergoing treatment

3. On skin that is irritated

4. On areas receiving radiation therapy

The correct answer is: On areas receiving radiation therapy

The appropriate response to refrain from applying lotion is in situations where skin is receiving radiation therapy. This is because skin that has been subjected to radiation can be particularly sensitive, irritated, or damaged. Applying lotion to this area could potentially interfere with the healing process or exacerbate discomfort. Additionally, certain lotions or creams may contain ingredients that can further irritate the skin or interfere with the effectiveness of the therapy. In contrast, while dry skin often benefits from moisturizing lotion, applying it to irritated skin may also be inappropriate, as it could cause further irritation or discomfort. For residents not undergoing treatment, there's generally no restriction against using lotion. Therefore, being mindful of these specific circumstances is critical for maintaining skin integrity and ensuring the comfort and safety of the individual under care.