A dermatology nurse is specially trained to care for patients with skin disorders who require medical treatment. These dermatology registered nurses perform tasks such as gathering medical information from patients, monitoring patient status, and administering some treatments. The dermatology nurse will assist the dermatologist, who is a physician who specializes in treating skin, scalp, and nail conditions. A bachelor’s or associate’s degree is usually required for this specialty nurse.
In addition to providing medical care, the dermatology nurse will educate and inform patients who are being treated for various skin disorders. She’ll teach patients how to spot the signs of serious illnesses like skin cancer. She can also instruct patients on how to prevent skin cancer and protect themselves from the harmful effects of sunlight. She’ll also give you detailed post-operative instructions. Her responsibilities also include keeping track of a patient’s progress and status through records and charts.
A dermatology nurse will often look after patients who are being treated for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. These skin disorders can result in inflamed red patches that require medication, which the dermatology nurse can administer under the supervision of a physician. Patients with rosacea, a chronic disorder that causes redness on the face and neck, may be cared for the nurse. Many patients with severe acne require dermatological treatment as well as extra attention from the assisting dermatology nurse.
Many dermatology nurses prefer to work in private practices alongside dermatologists. A dermatology nurse, on the other hand, is not uncommon to work in a clinic that specializes in skin conditions. Dermatology nurses work alongside skin specialists in hospitals.
Holistic practice may be a part of dermatology nursing. Dermatologists and nurses who practice holistic or alternative medicine use a natural approach to treat the underlying cause of skin problems. Herbal treatments and stress management, rather than chemicals or drugs, may be used.
Aestheticians, also known as cosmetic dermatology nurses, specialize in the care and treatment of patients undergoing cosmetic procedures and surgery. Chemical skin peels or more invasive procedures like a face lift or other plastic surgery may be used. The nurse may assist the dermatologist during surgery or provide post-operative care to cosmetic surgery patients.