6.8.1: Topical Route
- Page ID
- 89637
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Supplies and equipment required to administer drugs topically include
- Provider’s medication order
- Appropriate equipment for order
- Gloves
- Supplies to cleanse the skin
- Dressings or bandages, if appropriate
When preparing topical drugs, practice medical asepsis and work in a well-lit area without distractions; follow the nine rights of drug administration and check for drug allergies. Only administer medications ordered by the provider and that you have prepared yourself. If the MA has any questions about the drug, do not administer the drug until all questions have been answered.
Follow the following steps for safe administration of topical drugs:
- Use a drug reference source to review information on the drug ordered.
- Calculate the amount of drug to be administered.
- Wash hands.
- Check the drug label against the provider’s order. Check for the drug name, form, and route.
- Check the expiration date on the drug packaging.
- Prepare medication with the correct equipment for the topical administration route.
- Perform another check for the right name, form, route, and dose.
- Greet the patient and identify yourself. Verify the patient’s identity by asking for their name and date of birth. Check the patient’s identification bracelet if required.
- Ask the patient if they have any drug allergies.
- Provide patient education. Explain the drug ordered, the indication for the drug, side effects, adverse effects, and the provider who ordered the drug.
- Perform any assessments before administering the drug.
- Allow the patient to ask questions.
- Don gloves.
- Cleanse and dry skin in area where medication is to be applied.
- Change gloves if contaminated.
- Place medication on a sterile applicator or gauze bandage, ensuring the tip of the medication container does not become contaminated.
- Use long, even strokes to apply medication or apply medication to bandage or dressing.
- Bandage dressing if appropriate.
- Remove gloves and wash hands.
- Document medication administration.
- Document patient response and patient education.