When administering topical medications, which is an important nursing action?
Encourage the patient to self-apply the medication.
Wear treatment gloves during the entire application process.
Change gloves between prepping the skin and applying the medication.
Perform effective hand hygiene before and after applying the medication.
The Correct Answer is D
a) Encouraging self-application is beneficial in some cases, but it is not always appropriate. The nurse must ensure the medication is applied correctly and safely, especially if the patient has mobility or cognitive impairments.
b) Wearing treatment gloves is important when handling certain medications, but it is not required for all topical applications. Some medications, such as nitroglycerin ointment, require gloves to prevent nurse exposure, but others do not.
c) Changing gloves between skin preparation and medication application is not a universal requirement. In most cases, the same pair of gloves can be used unless contamination occurs.
d) Performing effective hand hygiene before and after applying the medication is the most essential action to prevent infection and cross-contamination.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Deficient knowledge may be a concern, but the primary focus here is on the safety risk associated with the side effects of the medication, particularly dizziness and orthostatic hypotension, which increase the risk of falls or injury.
B. Ineffective health maintenance is not specific to the medication side effects and does not directly address the patient's safety risk due to the medication.
C. Readiness for enhanced knowledge is more appropriate when the patient is already familiar with their condition and medication and is ready to learn more. This is not the case here, as the focus is on preventing harm from side effects.
D. Risk for injury is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis. Dizziness and orthostatic hypotension increase the risk of falls, which can lead to injury, making this the most relevant concern in this scenario.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. When administering subcutaneous heparin, aspiration should be avoided because it can cause tissue damage and increase the risk of hematoma formation. This statement correctly reflects safe administration technique.
B. Firm pressure on the injection site is not recommended after heparin administration because it can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Instead, gentle pressure should be applied if necessary.
C. Subcutaneous injections should be given at a 45- to 90-degree angle, depending on the patient’s body mass. A 10-degree angle is too shallow and may result in improper medication delivery.
D. The subcutaneous route does not provide faster absorption than other routes such as intravenous or intramuscular. Instead, it allows for slow, steady absorption, which is desirable for anticoagulants like heparin.
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