When applying a new transdermal patch, what should you avoid?

When applying a new transdermal patch, what should you avoid?

• A. Apply the patch on the same site as the old patch
• B. Do not apply new patch where the old patch was
• C. Apply a new patch on a different limb
• D. Discard the old patch and reuse it later

Answer: (B)

Transdermal patches deliver medicine through the skin, so the condition and history of a skin site affect both absorption and irritation. Placing a new patch exactly where the old one was can keep exposing irritated or healing skin and can lead to uneven or excessive absorption. Rotating to a fresh site on a different area helps maintain consistent dosing and reduces the risk of dermatitis. So the best practice is to avoid applying a new patch over the old site. It’s fine to put the new patch on a different limb or area with clean, dry skin. Also, discard the old patch rather than reusing it, since reusing can cause unpredictable dosing and increased skin irritation.

Transdermal patches deliver medicine through the skin, so the condition and history of a skin site affect both absorption and irritation. Placing a new patch exactly where the old one was can keep exposing irritated or healing skin and can lead to uneven or excessive absorption. Rotating to a fresh site on a different area helps maintain consistent dosing and reduces the risk of dermatitis. So the best practice is to avoid applying a new patch over the old site. It’s fine to put the new patch on a different limb or area with clean, dry skin. Also, discard the old patch rather than reusing it, since reusing can cause unpredictable dosing and increased skin irritation.