Final answer:
The appropriate action for a nurse when applying a fentanyl patch is to rotate the application site with each new patch to prevent skin irritation and to maintain the effectiveness of the medication's absorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is preparing to apply a fentanyl transdermal patch to a client who has chronic pain, the appropriate action to take is to rotate the application site with each new patch. This is important for several reasons: rotating the site prevents skin irritation and maintains the effectiveness of absorption, and it reduces the risk of developing sensitivities or allergic reactions to the adhesive or the medication itself.
It is not advisable to apply the patch to a hairy area, as hair can interfere with the adherence of the patch and the absorption of the medication. Neither should the patch be cut in half; doing so can alter the delivery system of the medication and potentially lead to overdose or ineffective pain management. Similarly, applying the patch to an area with a skin rash is contraindicated because the damaged skin can alter the drug's absorption and exacerbate skin irritation.