Question

A primary health care provider prescribed a medicated powder to be applied to a clients lower leg. Which is most essential for the nurse to do when applying the medicated powder?

a. Apply a thin layer in the direction of hair growth
b. Protect the clients face with a small towel
c. Dress the area with dry sterile gauze
d. Ensure that the skin surface is dry

Answer 1

The most essential action for the nurse to take when applying the medicated powder is to ensure that the skin surface is dry.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most essential action for the nurse to take when applying the medicated powder to the client's lower leg is to ensure that the skin surface is dry (option d). This is important because applying the powder on wet or damp skin can affect its effectiveness. Moisture can prevent the powder from properly adhering to the skin and may lead to uneven distribution.

By ensuring that the skin surface is dry, the nurse can maximize the therapeutic benefit of the medicated powder. This allows for better absorption into the skin and promotes the desired therapeutic effects. Applying a thin layer in the direction of hair growth (option a), protecting the client's face with a small towel (option b), and dressing the area with dry sterile gauze (option c) may be important in other situations, but they are not as essential as ensuring the skin surface is dry in this specific case.