NCLEX RN Exam Prep Related

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Which of the following is a disadvantage of using a dry heat application?

  • A. Dry heat is more likely to cause burns than moist heat
  • B. Dry heat does not penetrate deeply into the tissues
  • C. Dry heat causes the skin to dry out more quickly
  • D. Dry heat can quickly cause skin breakdown
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is that dry heat causes the skin to dry out more quickly. When comparing dry and moist heat applications, dry heat is less likely to cause burns and skin breakdown. However, one of the disadvantages of dry heat is that it does not penetrate deeply into the tissues and may lead to faster drying out of the skin. This can have negative effects on skin integrity and overall comfort during therapy. Choice A is incorrect because dry heat is less likely to cause burns than moist heat. Choice B is incorrect as dry heat may not penetrate deeply into tissues. Choice D is incorrect as dry heat is less likely to cause skin breakdown compared to moist heat.