The Effects of Nursing Care Applied in the Intensive Care Unit on a Case of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Case Report

Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are rare mucocutaneous diseases characterized by widespread epidermal necrosis and a high mortality rate. These conditions are often associated with drug exposure and require complex treatment and nursing care because they cause diverse symptoms in patients. Meticulous implementation of nursing protocols, particularly minimizing wound infections and bedsores that can lead to sepsis, is crucial to reducing mortality by reducing complications. This study aimed to emphasize the importance of nursing care by drawing attention to the treatment and care services provided to patients with a diagnosis of toxic epidermal necrolysis in collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals. We present a case of toxic epidermal necrolysis following ciprofloxacin treatment in a 32-year-old male patient. The patient, who had a high mortality risk, had 100% involvement. The patient had bullous lesions in the mouth, nose, perineum, scalp and entire body. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit and presented with agitation, pain, burning sensation, tachycardia and hyperthermia. Thanks to multidisciplinary collaboration and nursing care, the patient recovered and was transferred to the internal medicine ward. Multidisciplinary collaboration and nursing care reduce the development of complications in patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis, thus decreasing mortality and increasing survival. The most important approaches in the care of these patients are infection prevention, wound care and the implementation of supportive care strategies to prevent long-term complications. In this case, early admission of the patient to the intensive care unit and meticulous implementation of nursing care with a specially prepared sterile care bundle were crucial for reducing complications, ensuring wound healing and improving survival. Hospitals should develop standard care protocols that include rapid triage and specialized care requirements for patients diagnosed with toxic epidermal necrolysis.