Western Governors University (WGU) NURS6800 D116 Advanced Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse Practice Exam

Transdermal delivery relies on steady absorption through intact skin, so the patch must be placed on clean, dry, non-irritated skin to ensure consistent drug delivery. Hairless areas such as the upper arm or torso are preferred because hair can interfere with adhesion and absorption. Avoid mucous membranes, the scalp, or any irritated or broken skin, since those sites can lead to unpredictable absorption and skin irritation and can compromise the patch’s adhesion. Applying to intact, hairless skin on the upper arm or torso helps ensure reliable dosing and minimizes local skin reactions.