What instruction should a nurse give to a client regarding the care of a transdermal patch?

Transdermal patches are designed to deliver medication through the skin over an extended period. To optimize the effectiveness of the medication and minimize skin irritation, it is important to rotate the application site with each patch change. This practice allows for proper healing of the skin and reduces the risk of localized irritation or sensitivity that could result from applying a patch to the same area repeatedly.

Applying the patch to a moist area would not be advisable because moisture could compromise the adhesive, resulting in ineffective delivery of the medication. Using scissors to cut the patch is also discouraged because altering the patch could affect the dosage and release rate of the medication, potentially leading to overdosing or underdosing. Additionally, standard practice typically dictates that transdermal patches be changed according to manufacturer recommendations, which may vary but usually does not extend to a once-a-week change if not specified; ensuring adherence to the schedule specified for each specific patch type is critical.