Question

question 8
a woman suffered a second - degree burn of the skin on her arm and hand while cooking breakfast. after examination in the urgent care center, silver sulfadiazine cream (silvadene) is ordered for the burned area. the nurse will apply the medication using which procedure?

• applying a thin layer with a sterile, gloved hand
• applying a thick layer over the burned area, and then leaving the area open
• gently patting a moderate amount over the burned area
• massaging the cream completely into the wound

Explanation:

Silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene) is a topical antimicrobial for burns. Standard practice is to apply a thin, uniform layer using sterile gloves to maintain asepsis, avoid trauma to the wound, and ensure proper medication coverage. Thick layers, patting, or massaging are not recommended: thick layers can impede healing, patting may not distribute evenly, and massaging can damage fragile burned tissue.

Answer:

Applying a thin layer with a sterile, gloved hand