What precaution should a nurse take when teaching a client about using a transdermal patch?

What precaution should a nurse take when teaching a client about using a transdermal patch?

• A. Rotate patch sites to prevent irritation
• B. Use only one patch at a time
• C. Keep the patch in warm areas
• D. Take the patch off when feeling dizzy

Answer: (A)

Rotating patch sites is essential to prevent skin irritation and ensure proper absorption of the medication. When a transdermal patch is applied to the same area repeatedly, it can cause localized skin reactions such as redness, itching, or rash. By rotating sites, the nurse helps the client avoid these potential issues, while also ensuring that the patch adheres well and delivers medication effectively. Using only one patch at a time is typically a standard precaution, but the specific instruction to rotate patch sites addresses the importance of skin health more directly. Keeping the patch in warm areas is not advisable because excessive heat can increase the absorption rate, potentially leading to overdose or side effects. Lastly, while dizziness might warrant removing a patch, this action is a response to a symptom rather than a preventative teaching measure. Therefore, focusing on site rotation helps maintain skin integrity and optimize the medication's effectiveness.

Rotating patch sites is essential to prevent skin irritation and ensure proper absorption of the medication. When a transdermal patch is applied to the same area repeatedly, it can cause localized skin reactions such as redness, itching, or rash. By rotating sites, the nurse helps the client avoid these potential issues, while also ensuring that the patch adheres well and delivers medication effectively.

Using only one patch at a time is typically a standard precaution, but the specific instruction to rotate patch sites addresses the importance of skin health more directly. Keeping the patch in warm areas is not advisable because excessive heat can increase the absorption rate, potentially leading to overdose or side effects. Lastly, while dizziness might warrant removing a patch, this action is a response to a symptom rather than a preventative teaching measure. Therefore, focusing on site rotation helps maintain skin integrity and optimize the medication's effectiveness.