Which nursing action should be questioned when applying a transdermal medication patch?

Question

1. Removing the old patch prior to placing the new patch
2. Donning gloves prior to administering the medication
3. Applying the patch to the same area where the old patch was removed
4. Cleansing the site where the patch is to be applied with soap and water

Answer 1

3
Rationale 1: The old patch should be removed prior to placing the new patch in order to avoid the risk of forgetting and having two patches in place with the same medication.
Rationale 2: The nurse should wear gloves when working with transdermal patches to avoid getting medication on the skin.
Rationale 3: Transdermal patches should always be applied to a different area in order to improve absorption of the medication.
Rationale 4: The site where the new patch will go should be cleaned to prevent oils from interfering with adherence of the patch.
Global Rationale: Transdermal patches should always be applied to a different area in order to improve absorption of the medication. The old patch should be removed prior to placing the new patch in order to avoid the risk of forgetting and having two patches in place with the same medication. The nurse should wear gloves when working with transdermal patches to avoid getting medication on her skin. The site where the new patch will go should be cleaned to prevent oils from interfering with adherence of the patch.