Topical Application

TOPICAL APPLICATION Objectives: After 3 hours of lecture-discussion- demonstration, the level 3 students will be able to: 1. define the following terms: 1.1 topical medications 1.2 topical applications 1.3 emollient 1.4 rubefacient 1.5 ointment 1.6 cream 1.7 powder 1.8 spray 2. state the purpose in application of topical medications 3. enumerate the indications and contraindications of topical application 4. discuss the scientific principles involved on applying topical medications 5. cite the different topical preparations 6. list the guidelines in applying topical medications 7. demonstrate beginning skills in applying topical medications

1. Definition of terms: • Topical medications- medications that are applied locally most often to intact skin or mucous membrane. • Topical application- the process of applying to the skin and mucous membranes by painting or spreading it over an area. • Emollient- an agent that softens or soothes the skin. • Rubefacient- a substance that irritates the skin which cases redness. •

Ointment- is a hemi-solid preparation of one/ more drugs for application.

• Cream- a non-greasy semisolid preparation used in the skin. • Powder- a finely ground drugs, some are used internally and some externally. • Spray- a liquid product that is packaged in an atomizer or pressurized container. 2. Purpose • • • •

To decrease itching (pruritus) To lubricate and soften the skin To provide a protective coating to the skin To apply an antibiotic or antiseptic drug

3. Indications • Patients with skin irritation • Swelling and inflamed skin • Patients with fungal infections • Patients with diaper dermatitis • Patients with burns

Contraindications • Patients with history of hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to drug • Medications not intended fro topical use. • No physician orders. 4. 5. Cite 5.1 Ointment- appropriate with skin needs lubricants or moisture.

5.2 Lotions- prevents skin from drying

5.3 Solutions- are liquids in which a drug is dissolved

5.4 Astringents- reduce the extent of weeping in dermatitis

5.5 Powders- dried forms of substance that are used to protect areas where skin rubs against skin. 5.6 Colloids- liquid preparations consisting of a solution. 5.7 Creams- a non-greasy semisolid preparation.

5.8 Emollient- soften the skin by forming an occlusive oil film on the stratum corneum preventing drying from evaporation from the deeper layers of the skin. 5.9 Gargles- are aqueous solution usually in a concentrated from intended fro use after dilution. 5.10 Gels- are semisolid preparation from high molecular weight polymers in an aqueous of alcoholic base. 5.11 Liniment- are viscous liquids containing substances possessing analgesics, soothing or stimulating properties when applied on the skin.

6. Guidelines • Clean site according to package instruction • Apply medication as prescribed in a thin layer, using hands, wooden tongue depressor or gauze pad. • Avoid getting medications in contact to eyes, mucous membranes and skin folds. • Shake well the bottle before using • For spray, be careful in administering since this can cause irritation to the eyes and mouth. Let the patient turn his head away. • For spray, hold dispenser 2-3 inches from site (see label) and spray in circular motion inward to outward. • Apply a covering over the area.