increasing number of drugs that are administered using this route. These include
cardiovascular medication such as nitroglycerin, neoplastic drugs (cancer), and
hormones (estrogen and birth control medications). In addition, analgesics
(Fentanyl), medication used to treat allergic reactions, and smoking cessation
drugssuch as Nicotrol are also administered through the transdermal route.
Transdermal patches provide a consistent blood level and less absorption
problems in the gastrointestinal tract that are commonly experienced by patients
who take oral medications.
When administering transdermal medication:- Check the prescriber’s order.
- Don’t cut the patch in half.
- Remove the patch before applying another patch.
- Apply the patch onto the specified area of the body. Nitroglycerin is placed
on the chest or upper arm. The nicotine patch is applied to the trunk or
upper arm. Fentanyl is positioned on the chest, flank, or upper arm. - Alternate the sites of the patch on the patient’s body.
- Wear gloves when administering the patch because the nurse can easily
absorb the medication, which can cause an undesirable reaction. - Place the patch on a clean, dry, hairless area where the skin is intact.
- Some transdermal medication is available in a tube with an accompany-
ing pad of paper patches. The paper has measurement lines on it and
the medication is squeezed onto the paper in the amount ordered. For
example, nitroglycerin^1 / 2 inch. Label the patch with the date, time and
your initials.
TOPICAL ROUTE
The topical route refers to applying medication to the skin for a local effect.
There are three ways to administer topical medication. These are with a glove,
with a tongue blade, or with a cotton-tipped applicator. Never apply topical med-
ication with an ungloved hand because medication may be absorbed into your
body as well as into the patient’s body.
When administering a topical medication:- Check the prescriber’s order.
- Use clean or sterile technique if applying the medication to skin that is
broken or burned. - Stroke the medication firmly onto the skin.
- Be sure the patient is comfortable when applying medication to painful
areas of the skin.
(^100) CHAPTER 6 Route of Administration