(piano music)
[Narrator] Some medications can be administered
by applying a medicated patch.
The medication is absorbed through the skin
and into the person's bloodstream.
Begin by washing your hands.
When giving medication in this way,
it's important to wear disposable gloves.
You want to prevent the medication
from getting onto your skin
and being absorbed into your body.
You can tell.
Okay, so where's the patch?
[Narrator] First, ensure that all previous patches
have been removed.
[Nurse] Patch off here.
Okay, there we go.
[Narrator] Fold used patches in half
with the adhesive sides together.
Select a new, clean dry area, typically above the waist.
It's best to choose a spot where there's limited movement
and away from skin folds.
For example, the upper back, chest, or upper arms.
Avoid broken, irritated, or scarred skin.
Prepare the new area by gently washing and drying the skin,
and clipping hair if necessary.
Don't shave the hair.
As with all medications,
it's important to ensure you have the right medication
and you're giving the right amount on the right day and time
as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Take the patch out of its protective packaging.
And before you remove the backing from the sticky side,
write the date on the top side of the patch.
This will help you keep track of when it was applied.
[Nurse] December the 8th.
[Narrator] Apply the sticky side against the skin.
Press the patch firmly for 30 seconds
to ensure it stays in place.
Tape along the edges only if needed to keep it secure.
Don't cover the whole patch with tape.
When applying medications through the skin,
any kind of heat over the medicated area
will speed absorption,
so avoid anything that heats the body surface.
If the person has a fever, talk to your healthcare provider.
When you're done, remove and discard the gloves,
and wash your hands.
Document the medication and when it was given
in your medication record.
Also note when the patch needs to be changed.
It may be helpful to write the date of the next patch change
on a calendar.
(piano music)