A practical nurse (PN) is preparing to administer a scheduled transdermal nitroglycerin patch to a client with a history of stable angina. The client currently has an active patch on their right upper chest. In what order should the PN perform the following actions to ensure safe medication administration?
- 1Perform hand hygiene and put on a pair of clean gloves.
- 2Remove the existing nitroglycerin patch and fold it in half with the adhesive sides together.
- 3Cleanse a newly selected, hairless application site on the upper body and allow it to air dry.
- 4Write the current date, time, and nurse's initials on the outer backing of the new patch.
- 5Remove the protective liner and apply the new patch, pressing firmly with the palm of the hand.
Cevap
The correct sequence for applying a transdermal medication patch is: 1) Don gloves, 2) Remove the old patch, 3) Clean the new site, 4) Label the new patch, and 5) Apply the new patch.
Safe application of a transdermal nitroglycerin patch requires a strict chronological sequence to protect both the client and the nurse. The nurse must first don gloves to prevent self-absorption of the vasoactive medication. Removing the old patch is the immediate next step to prevent medication toxicity (double-dosing). The new site must then be prepared to ensure proper absorption. The new patch should always be labeled prior to application so that the pressure of writing does not inadvertently push a bolus of the drug into the client's skin. Finally, the patch is applied securely.
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Anahtar Kavram
Safe Administration of Transdermal Medications