What should be monitored when administering over-the-counter topical medications?

When administering over-the-counter topical medications, it is essential to monitor the presence of any new swelling or bleeding. This monitoring is critical because these reactions can indicate an adverse response to the medication, such as an allergic reaction or irritation at the application site. Swelling may signal an inflammatory response, and bleeding could suggest skin breakdown or an adverse effect of the medication on the local tissue. These observations help ensure the safety of the patient and allow for timely interventions if any negative side effects occur.

While patient comfort, time of administration, and dosage adjustments are important considerations in the overall context of medication administration, they do not directly address the immediate physical reactions that can arise specifically from topical applications. Monitoring for new symptoms like swelling or bleeding provides vital feedback on the patient's tolerability of the treatment and is essential for safe and effective medication administration.