When preparing a patient with fragile skin for telemetry monitoring, which measure should an EKG technician take?

When preparing a patient with fragile skin for telemetry monitoring, which measure should an EKG technician take?

• A. Increase pressure when abrading the skin
• B. Use moisturizing lotion after cleaning
• C. Decrease pressure when abrading the skin
• D. Apply adhesive tape to secure electrodes

Answer: (C)

When preparing a patient with fragile skin for telemetry monitoring, decreasing pressure when abrading the skin is essential. Fragile skin is more prone to damage and tearing, so using a gentle touch minimizes the risk of abrasion and injury. This approach helps ensure the patient's comfort and maintains the integrity of the skin, which is crucial for proper electrode placement and monitoring. In contrast, increasing pressure or applying adhesive tape without considering the fragility of the skin may lead to discomfort or further skin damage. Additionally, using moisturizing lotion after cleaning could interfere with the adhesion of the electrodes if not fully absorbed or allowed to dry, so it is not recommended in this context. For patients with fragile skin, a careful and considerate technique is critical to ensure safe and effective telemetry monitoring.

When preparing a patient with fragile skin for telemetry monitoring, decreasing pressure when abrading the skin is essential. Fragile skin is more prone to damage and tearing, so using a gentle touch minimizes the risk of abrasion and injury. This approach helps ensure the patient's comfort and maintains the integrity of the skin, which is crucial for proper electrode placement and monitoring.

In contrast, increasing pressure or applying adhesive tape without considering the fragility of the skin may lead to discomfort or further skin damage. Additionally, using moisturizing lotion after cleaning could interfere with the adhesion of the electrodes if not fully absorbed or allowed to dry, so it is not recommended in this context. For patients with fragile skin, a careful and considerate technique is critical to ensure safe and effective telemetry monitoring.