Which nurse kept records on sanitation techniques and the effects on health?

The correct answer is: d. Left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line.

Choice A: Left fourth intercostal space at the sternal border

The fourth intercostal space at the sternal border is not the typical location for the Point of Maximal Impulse (PMI). This area is more commonly associated with the tricuspid valve auscultation point. The PMI is usually found more laterally and inferiorly.

Choice B: Left third intercostal space at the sternal border

The third intercostal space at the sternal border is also not the correct location for the PMI. This area is generally used for auscultating the pulmonic valve. The PMI is located further down and towards the midclavicular line.

Choice C: Left second intercostal space at the midclavicular line

The second intercostal space at the midclavicular line is typically where the aortic valve is auscultated. The PMI is not found this high up on the chest.

Choice D: Left fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line

This is the correct location for palpating the Point of Maximal Impulse (PMI). The PMI is usually located at the apex of the heart, which is found at the left fifth intercostal space along the midclavicular line. This is where the left ventricle is closest to the chest wall and can be felt most strongly during systole.

Choice A rationale:

Washing hands for 5 to 10 seconds prior to administering medication is indeed an important safety measure, but it is not specifically related to changing or applying a transdermal patch. Hand hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of infection, but it doesn't directly address the process of applying a patch.

Choice B rationale:

Applying the patch over a non-hairy area within the patient's skin is the correct answer. This is crucial because hair can interfere with the adhesion of the patch, leading to inadequate drug absorption. The rationale behind this is to ensure that the medication is effectively delivered through the skin into the bloodstream without any barriers such as hair. It's also important to choose a site that is clean, dry, and free from cuts or irritation.

Choice C rationale:

Leaving the previous medication patch in place is not recommended. It's essential to remove the old patch before applying a new one to prevent accumulation of the medication and to ensure accurate dosing. Failing to remove the previous patch could lead to an overdose or altered drug effects.

Choice D rationale:

Ensuring that the patient is lying down is not a specific safety measure for changing or applying a transdermal patch. The patient's position doesn't directly impact the effectiveness of the patch or the safety of the application process.