Hope, hypothermia and human spirit: Refugee Support First Aid and Care Team

Brighid Langtry reflects on her life-changing experiences as a volunteer medic with Refugee Support in 'The Jungle' camp in Calais.

Amazing courage in the Calais 'Jungle'

Staff nurse Holly Howe completed a six-week volunteer placement at the Calais migrant camp’s clinic. She found the work heartbreaking, but was amazed by the resilience of the people living in the camp.

Management of skin conditions in the older population 2

This is the second of two papers covering assessment and management of elderly skin. Part 1 of this clinical review focused on the importance of a comprehensive assessment of the skin and a detailed clinical history of the patient (Bianchi and Cameron, 2008). This second paper considers some common dermatological conditions seen in the older adult and explores suitable management strategies.

Scabies and lice: review of the clinical features and management principles

Health care providers frequently encounter human infestations of scabies and lice. When a person is identified as having either of these infestations, he/she should be treated. More importantly, their close contacts should be examined and treated if needed. It is vital for dermatology nurses to understand the epidemiology, transmission, symptoms, distribution, diagnosis, complications, and treatment for scabies and lice infestations.

A guide to nurse prescribing of insecticides and anthelmintics

Several drug preparations are available to the nurse prescriber to treat parasitic infestations, most commonly head lice, scabies and threadworms. It is vital that the nurse has a thorough knowledge of the types of preparations available, together with an understanding of the non-pharmacological interventions to eradicate infestation. Many people may be treated without the intervention of a doctor, but the nurse prescriber should ensure that those who are affected receive appropriate referral to their GP if there are special circumstances, secondary infestation or a suspected infestation by roundworms.

Management of chronic, resistive scabies: a case study

It took about 9 months of diligent effort to resolve Mr. C's chronic, highly resistive case of scabies. In all, Mr. C. had a total of seven treatments with a scabicidal lotion or cream. In addition, other medications were prescribed in an attempt to resolve his skin condition. The treatment of scabies is costly to an institution, in medications, supplies, and additional nursing time required to treat the patient, as well as other patients prophylactically. Therefore it behooves nurses to do a thorough skin assessment on all nursing home care patients at least monthly, recognize early signs of scabies, and be cognizant of the fact that scabies in the elderly patient may have an atypical distribution.

Scabies: update on diagnosis and treatment

Scabies, a pruritic, contagious skin disease, is endemic in our society. It is especially prevalent in schools and day care centers. Close physical contact, such as that of children playing, is required for transmission. During the past decade a new therapeutic agent has replaced standard therapy. Diagnosis, symptoms, possible complications and treatment options are discussed.

Nursing management of patients with scabies and lice

Ectoparasites have afflicted mankind since antiquity and continue to be responsible for much human suffering. The infested patient is in need of prompt, effective treatment from a compassionate, knowledgeable nurse. The nurse who understands how these creatures are transmitted and how they can be efficiently eradicated can help the patient become free of the misery of infestation and the dangers of secondary disease.