Which action is most important for a parent caring for a child with impetigo?

Soften and remove crust and debris is the most important action for a parent caring for a child with impetigo because this helps to facilitate the healing process and reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Impetigo often presents with honey-colored crusted lesions that can be itchy and uncomfortable. By gently softening the crusts and removing debris, the skin can better absorb topical antibacterial treatment, which is crucial for resolving the infection.

Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the affected area clean are essential in managing this condition. This process not only promotes healing but also decreases the chance of the infection spreading to other areas of the skin or to other individuals. Parents should be advised to use a clean, warm cloth to gently cleanse the lesions as needed.

While it is important to note that impetigo is highly contagious, it typically requires direct skin-to-skin contact for transmission, making proper care and attention to hygiene crucial. Therefore, understanding that impetigo is not contagious is misleading for parents. Leaving draining lesions open to air may not facilitate appropriate healing and could lead to further irritation. Avoiding topical antibacterial ointment is contrary to recommended treatment practices; these ointments are typically prescribed to treat impetigo effectively. Proper management of the lesions through softening