Stephanie Caldera, age 36, is seen by her provider for scaling patches on her forearms, elbows, and lower legs. She is diagnosed with psoriasis vulgaris and the provider prescribes betamethasone cream...

Stephanie Caldera, age 36, is seen by her provider for scaling patches on her forearms, elbows, and lower legs. She is diagnosed with psoriasis vulgaris and the provider prescribes betamethasone cream (Diprosone). Stephanie asks the nurse, “What is psoriasis? I look so awful! Is it contagious?”

1. How should the nurse respond?

2. What specific instructions should Stephanie be given about the application of the betamethasone cream?

3. Stephanie’s psoriasis has not been responsive to betamethasone and she is prescribed calcipotriene (Dovonex). What teaching does Stephanie receive about this new prescription?