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Information

Transdermal medications

Through an adhesive patch or a measured dose of ointment applied to the skin, transdermal drugs deliver constant, controlled medication directly into the bloodstream for a prolonged systemic effect. Contraindications for transdermal drugs include skin allergies or skin reactions to the drug.

Transdermal drugs shouldn't be applied to broken or irritated skin because they increase irritation or to scarred or callused skin, which might impair absorption.


What you need !!navigator!!

Patient's medication record and chart gloves prescribed medication (patch or ointment) application strip or measuring paper (for nitroglycerin ointment) adhesive tape plastic wrap (optional for nitroglycerin ointment) or semipermeable dressing.


Getting ready !!navigator!!

Verify the order on the patient's medication record by checking it against the doctor's order. Perform hand hygiene and, if necessary, don gloves.


How you do it !!navigator!!
  • Check the label on the medication and note the expiration date.
  • Confirm the patient's identity using two patient identifiers.
  • Explain the procedure to the patient and provide privacy.
  • Remove any previously applied medication.

Applying transdermal ointment
  • Place the prescribed amount of ointment on the application strip or measuring paper, taking care not to get any on your skin.
  • Apply the strip to any dry, hairless area of the body but remember not to rub the ointment into the skin.
  • Tape the strip and ointment to the skin.
  • If desired, cover the application strip with the plastic wrap and tape the wrap in place.
  • Instruct the patient to keep the area around the ointment as dry as possible.

Applying a transdermal patch
  • Open the package and remove the patch.
  • Without touching the adhesive surface, remove the clear plastic backing.
  • Apply the patch to a dry, hairless area—behind the ear, for example, as with scopolamine. (See Applying a transdermal medication patch.)
  • Write the date, time, and your initials on the dressing.

Practice pointers !!navigator!!
  • Reapply daily transdermal medications at the same time every day to ensure a continuous effect, but alternate the application sites to avoid skin irritation. (See Transdermal drug pointers.)
  • Review specific instructions with the patient regarding the type of medication, adverse effects, and interactions.
  • Instruct the patient to keep the area around the patch as dry as possible. (See Documenting transdermal medication use.)

Outline