Eczema

Eczema affects nearly three million Australians. It is one of the 10 most common diseases in Australia.  While it is a common presentation in primary care, the ongoing management can be complex, time-consuming and expensive.  The range of treatment options and topical applications for patients can be overwhelming. 

Primary health care nurses often serve as one of the first and most consistent points of contact for patients navigating the complexities of eczema.

Our role goes far beyond administering treatments; we are educators, advocates, and supporters who help patients understand their condition and manage it effectively.

Resources

Eczema care plan

This mediated care plan will ensure consistency of messaging on the foundational management and eczema flare control. Patients can record their own specific care information and print it for easy reference. 

Management algorithm

A clinical point-of-care resource for an evidence-based, stepped approach to the management of eczema, tailored for health professionals working in primary care settings.

Myth busting 

In this video, dermatologist Dr Li Chien Wong addresses common myths and misconceptions about eczema management. Primary health care nurses can use this resource to support conversations with patients.

Optimising paediatric eczema care: a nurses’ guide

This blog article explores the key principles of managing paediatric eczema and how nurses can educate and support patients through their eczema journey.

Free on-demand webinar: Practical solutions to paediatric eczema care

This on demand webinar for nurses, provides the latest evidence on eczema management addressing common questions and concerns. It uses a case-based approach to demonstrate the practical aspects of care including application of creams adjuvant therapies of wet dressings and bleach baths.

Featuring Jemma Weidinger, Nurse Practitioner from the Department of Dermatology at Perth Children’s hospital.

Eczema Support Australia

This organisation provides practical support to help people affected by eczema successfully manage their condition. Key resources include:

• Paediatric factsheet - This consumer factsheet, developed with input from maternal, child and family care nurses, dermatologists, parents and carers, provides easy-to-follow advice, practical tips and guidance on daily skin care and routines. 
• Topical corticosteroids factsheet - Use this resource to reassure patients about the safety and effectiveness of topical corticosteroids or flare control creams and to provide answers to commonly asked questions.
• Eczema care online tool kit  - An interactive web-based toolkit that caters for everyone from babies to adults and includes a range of tools, tips, customer experience videos and resources.