The parent of an adolescent tells the clinic nurse, "My child has athlete's foot. I have been applying triple antibiotic ointment for two days, but there has been no improvement." Which instruction should the nurse provide?

Antibiotics take two weeks to become effective against infections such as athlete's foot.

Continue using the ointment for a full week, even after the symptoms disappear.

Applying too much ointment can deter its effectiveness. Apply a thin layer to prevent maceration.

Stop using the ointment and encourage complete drying of feet and wearing clean socks.