Why is this procedure done?
Your doctor has ordered a drug for you. This drug is absorbed through the skin. Most often, you will want to avoid getting this drug in your eyes, nose, or mouth. ‚
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What will the results be?
Your skin will absorb the cream, lotion, or ointment for your body to use. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Make sure you have all of the items that you will need. Place them on a clean surface nearby.
- Cream, lotion, or ointment
- A tissue or cloth
- Check the drug.
- Read the label to make sure that you have the correct drug.
- Know where you are to put the drug. Some drugs should only be placed on certain areas of skin.
- Make sure you have the right dose. Check the amount of drug against what the doctor ordered.
- Check the expiration date. Do not use it if it is expired.
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water before you begin. Ask your doctor if you should also wash and dry the affected area before you begin.
What happens during the procedure?
- Shake creams and lotions well.
- Use only enough cream, lotion, or ointment to cover the whole area.
- Spread a thin layer over the whole area. Most often, a thick layer will not work better than a thin layer.
What happens after the procedure?
Wash your hands to remove any drug that may be on them. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
When do I need to call the doctor?
You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse ‚
Helpful tips
Only the cream, lotion, or ointment that is in contact with the skin is able to work. Extra amounts are not helpful. ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚