What should a nurse consider when educating a parent about managing impetigo?

When educating a parent about managing impetigo, the importance of frequent washing of hands and affected areas is crucial. Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection, commonly caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Frequent handwashing can help prevent the spread of the infection, not only to the affected child but also to other family members or peers.

Cleaning the affected areas reduces the risk of spreading the bacteria and aids in the healing process. It is essential for parents to understand that good hygiene practices, including washing hands thoroughly and regularly, can significantly decrease the transmission of this infection. Additionally, keeping the lesions clean helps prevent further irritation and promotes recovery.

Considering the other options, it's important to note that antibiotics are typically recommended for impetigo, even if the rash has not yet spread, to effectively treat the infection. The recommendation about shoes is not specific to managing impetigo, and isolation is not typically required; children can return to school or daycare usually after 24 hours of appropriate antibiotic treatment and once lesions are crusted over. Thus, emphasizing cleanliness and hygiene is the most effective approach in educating parents about managing impetigo.