What action must a nurse take when applying a transdermal patch?

Wearing gloves when applying a transdermal patch is important for several reasons. First, gloves help to prevent any medication from the transdermal patch from being absorbed through the nurse's skin, which could potentially lead to an unintended systemic effect. This is particularly crucial since some transdermal medications can have powerful effects even in small doses.

In addition, gloves provide a barrier that helps maintain aseptic technique, minimizing the risk of introducing pathogens to the skin where the patch will be applied. It is essential to ensure that the application site is clean and dry, but the protective measure of wearing gloves goes a step further in preserving both the integrity of the medication and the safety of the patient.

This careful approach helps ensure that the nurse follows best practices in medication administration, promotes patient safety, and respects the pharmacological properties of the medication being delivered through the patch.