A nurse on the Cardiovascular unit is completing the patient's history and physical examination. Which of the following information provided by the patient should the nurse consider as subjective data?

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.

Choice A rationale:

Providing wound irrigation might be necessary during the dressing change, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. First, the nurse should ensure they have all the necessary supplies to prevent interruptions during the procedure.

Choice B rationale:

While avoiding accidentally removing the drain is important, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Ensuring that all supplies are gathered and ready will help facilitate a smooth and organized dressing change.

Choice C rationale:

Gathering supplies is the priority in this situation. Having all the needed supplies readily available ensures that the dressing change can be carried out efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Choice D rationale:

Providing analgesic medication as ordered by the provider is important for the patient's comfort during the procedure. However, it should not be the first action the nurse takes. First, the nurse should ensure that they have all the necessary supplies to conduct the dressing change safely.