Question

A patient is using a smoking cessation patch and needs a moist heat application. What nursing intervention before the initial application of the heat is most important?

Answer 1

Reasons for heat application:

The effects of heat are to increase lymph flow, local metabolism, blood flow and blood vessel dilation, and exchange of substances through capillary walls. NursesRole Nursing is the largest group of health care professionals and have tremendous potential role in smoking cessation interventions.

Nursing intervention:

Ask about tobacco use at every visit

Create a universal identification system (stickers, computer reminders, etc.)

Determine if the patient can receive hot therapy.
Assess the skin before and after treatment
Document the results of treatment

Make identification/documentation a vital sign

Systematically identify all tobacco users