General
• Transdermal medications are administered topically and absorbed through the skin into
the blood; they can exert a systemic effect.
• Avoids first-pass metabolism and decreases bioavailability of medication.
• Provides a controlled, constant release of medication.
• Patients who are obese or diaphoretic may have difficulty absorbing the medication.
• If a patient is going to have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure, make sure the
patch of transdermal medication does not contain a metallic component. The U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that health care professionals note the presence
of a patch when they refer patients for an MRI. The patch may be removed before the MRI
and replaced after the exam is completed.
• Heat increases the absorption of transdermal medications. Check with the health care
provider (HCP) before administering a medication patch to a patient who has a
temperature higher than 102°F.
• Do not apply any heat over patch; doing so will increase absorption of medication.
• Do not allow medication to come in direct contact with fingers.
Administration Guidelines
1. Follow principles of medication administration.
2. Apply patch to dry, hairless area of subcutaneous tissue—preferably the chest, abdomen, upper back.
3. Remove old patch and cleanse area; apply new patch in a different area.
4. Do not apply a patch over an area of emaciated skin or on an area with irritated or broken
skin.
5. Do not apply an adhesive dressing over the patch.
6. Dispose old patches according to facility guidelines. Of specific concern is proper disposal
of fentanyl patches.
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