Pre‐procedure

ActionRationale

1. 1.Show
   Explain and discuss the procedure with the patient.
   To ensure that the patient understands the procedure and gives their valid consent (Griffith et al. [91], E; NMC [177], C).
2. 2.Show
   Check the patient's prescription chart against the chemotherapy medication.
   To ensure that the patient is given the correct drug and dose (NMC [178], C; NMC [177], C).

Procedure

1. 3.Show
   Close room door or curtains if appropriate.
   To ensure patient privacy and dignity. E
2. 4.Show
   Put on apron and gloves.
   To ensure that the practitioner is protected from accidental spillage (Polovich [192], E).
3. 5.Show
   Assist the patient into the required position.
   To allow access to the affected area of skin. E
4. 6.Show
   Assess the condition of the skin and use aseptic technique if the skin is broken.
   To prevent local or systemic infection (DH [46], C; Fraise and Bradley [77], E).
5. 7.Show
   If the medication is to be rubbed into the skin, the preparation should be placed on a sterile topical swab.
   To minimize the risk of cross‐infection. To protect the nurse (DH [46], C; Fraise and Bradley [77], E).
6. 8.Show
   If the preparation causes staining, advise the patient of this.
   To ensure that adequate precautions are taken beforehand and to prevent unwanted stains (NMC [177], C).
7. 9.Show
   Use a sterile dressing if required.
   To ensure the ointment remains in place (Chernecky et al. [29], E).

Post‐procedure

1. 10.Show
   Ensure that all waste is discarded according to policy guidance.
   To minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous waste (HSE [104], C).
2. 11.Show
   Record the administration on appropriate charts.
   To maintain accurate records, provide a point of reference in the event of any queries and prevent any duplication of treatment (NMC [178], C).