Question

The student nurse is preparing to apply a transdermal nitrogylcerin patch on the patient. What precautions should the student nurse utilize?

Select one or more:
a. Obtain a set of vital signs before applying the patch.
b. Write in the date and time it is applied on the patch.
c. Remove the patch during the patient's bath and reapply when done.
d. Apply the patch on the chest.
e. Wear gloves to handle the patch.
f. Alternate sites where the patch is applied.

Answer 1

When applying a transdermal nitroglycerin patch, it's important to take the patient's vital signs, write the application date and time on the patch, wear gloves during application, and rotate the application site.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing to apply a transdermal nitroglycerin patch, the student nurse should take several precautions:

• a. Obtain a set of vital signs before applying the patch to have a baseline for monitoring the effects of the medication.
• b. Write in the date and time it is applied on the patch to ensure proper tracking of medication administration.
• e. Wear gloves to handle the patch to prevent self-administration of the drug through the skin.
• f. Alternate sites where the patch is applied to prevent skin irritation and enhance absorption.

Options 'c' and 'd' are not generally recommended. It is not necessary to remove the patch during the patient's bath, as most patches are water-resistant, and it's best to avoid the chest area to prevent irritation from defibrillation or cardioversion procedures.