A nurse is collecting health history data from a client who has hemorrhoids. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

a. "Start the first patch on the seventh day of the menstrual cycle."

Explanation:

The correct answer is a. "Start the first patch on the seventh day of the menstrual cycle."

When providing teaching about a combination contraceptive transdermal patch, it is important to provide accurate and relevant information to ensure its effectiveness and proper use.

Option b is not the correct answer. The contraceptive effect of the transdermal patch does not continue for 6 months following discontinuation. Its effectiveness lasts only as long as the client continues to use it according to the prescribed schedule.

Option c is not the correct answer. The transdermal patch should be applied to a clean, dry area of the skin that is free from cuts, rashes, or irritation. The lower abdomen is not a recommended site for application.

Option d is not the correct answer. While headaches can occur as a side effect of hormonal contraceptives, it is not necessary to expect a headache during the first month. Side effects can vary among individuals, and it is important to monitor and report any concerning symptoms to the healthcare provider.

By instructing the client to start the first patch on the seventh day of the menstrual cycle, the nurse provides specific guidance on when to initiate the contraceptive method. This ensures that the client is starting the patch at an appropriate time in their menstrual cycle, optimizing its effectiveness

Answer: A. Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.

Rationale:

A) Apply light pressure to the inner canthus just after instilling the eye drops.
Applying pressure to the inner canthus (the corner of the eye nearest the nose) helps occlude the nasolacrimal duct. This action reduces the systemic absorption of the medication by preventing it from draining into the nasal passages and subsequently into the systemic circulation, thus enhancing the local effect of the eye drops.

B) Wipe the eye from the inner to the outer canthus with a sterile saline-moistened cotton ball.
While this action may help remove excess medication or discharge, it does not minimize systemic absorption. Instead, wiping the eye could inadvertently spread the medication to other areas, increasing the chance of absorption rather than reducing it.

C) Administer the medication drops directly into the lower conjunctival sac of each eye.
While placing drops in the lower conjunctival sac is a standard practice for delivering ophthalmic medications, it does not directly influence systemic absorption. The main goal is to ensure adequate dosing in the eye, but systemic absorption can still occur if the drops drain into the nasolacrimal duct.

D) Wait 5 min after instillation before instilling the drops in the other eye.
Waiting between instillations is good practice to prevent dilution of the first dose and to allow for absorption. However, this action does not significantly impact systemic absorption. It focuses more on ensuring that the first dose is effective before administering a second dose.