ADMINISTRATION OF TOPICAL MEDICATION

REQUIREMENTS #

1. A tray containing the following:
   • Medication
   • Disposable gloves
   • Gallipot containing sterile swabs
   • Receiver for used swabs
   • Mackintosh and dressing towel
2. Treatment chart (manual or electronic)

STEPS #

1. Check for the right patient, right medication, right time, right dose against doctor’s order and treatment chart (manual or electronic) as well as the expiry date
2. Establish rapport (Refer to steps)
3. Explain procedure
4. Ensure patient’s right to know/consent and to refuse medication
5. Perform hand hygiene
6. Prepare tray and send to bedside
7. Provide privacy and expose the area
8. Assess the site for application of medication
9. Cover the bed with mackintosh and dressing towel
10. Perform hand hygiene and wear gloves
11. Dab skin area with a dry swab to dry and remove flicking skin
12. Apply topical agents evenly on the skin and rub if necessary
13. Remove glove and perform hand hygiene
14. Document procedure on nurses’ notes and chart on the treatment chart (manual or electronic)
15. Dispose off used items and decontaminate tray
16. Perform hand hygiene
17. Report to appropriate officer