Preventative Medicine in Dermatology

Question 1

How should emollients be used?

Answer 1

Applied liberally and regularly

Question 2

How should topical corticosteroids be used?

Answer 2

Apply thinly and only for short term use.
Only use 1% hydrocortisone on the face.
Fingertip unit - strip of cream the length of the fingertip is enough to cover SA equivalent to 2 palms.

Question 3

Why do people get pressure sores?

Answer 3

Ischaemia due to localised damage to the skin caused by sustained pressure, friction, and moisture, especially over bony prominences.

Question 4

How can we prevent pressure sores?

Answer 4

Frequent repositioning
Nutritional support
Use of pressure relieving devices such as special beds and chair cushions.

Question 5

Why is sun exposure such a hot topic?

Answer 5

Excessive exposure to UV light is the most significant and preventble risk factor for the development of skin cancer.

Question 6

Which skin types are ar the highest risk of developing skin cancer due to excessive un exposure?

Answer 6

Types 1 and 2

Question 7

What is the SMART tool for avoiding excessive sun exposure?

Answer 7

Spend time in shade between 11am-3pm
Make sure you never burn
Aim to cover up (t-shirt, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat)
Remember to take extra care with children
Then use SPF 30+ suncream

Question 8

What are the skin types?

Answer 8

I - always burn, never tan
II - always burn, sometimes tan
III - sometimes burn, always tan
IV - never burn, always tan