Application / VIDEO

Remove Patch From the Envelope: Remove the Sweat Patch from the transparent outside envelope.

Remove Backing: Remove the white backing with the PharmChek® logo on it from the patch. Hold the PharmChek® Sweat Patch by the unglued ends to avoid touching the adhesive surface of the PharmChek® Sweat Patch.

PharmChek® Sweat Patch Application: Have the donor flex the arm muscles for the upper arm application. For the back or midriff application area, have the donor either bend forward (for the back) or bend back (for the midriff). The purpose of flexing or bending is to stretch the skin during application to avoid a mechanical injury to the skin. Next, place the PharmChek® Sweat Patch over the cleaned and stretched area of the skin. Press the PharmChek® Sweat Patch onto the skin and gently rub the area of film around the absorbent pad with the index finger for approximately 10 seconds.

Remove the Outer Border: Find the slit in the side of the paper border around the PharmChek® Sweat Patch. Remove the border and discard it. Gently rub the area of the film on the outside edge of the PharmChek® Sweat Patch.

Observer’s Certification: The trained observer signs the box marked "Observer’s Certification" at Sweat Patch Application.

Instructions to Donor: After the PharmChek® Sweat Patch has been applied, let the donor know when to return to have the Sweat Patch removed. Instruct the donor that if the PharmChek® Sweat Patch appears to be coming loose, it is the donor's responsibility to tell a staff person prior to the PharmChek® patch removal date. Inform the donor he may perform normal activities such as work, bathing, showering, and exercising, etc. However, the donor should be cautioned to pat, not rub, over the patch when washing and drying.

Tracking Sweat Patches: Place the chain-of-custody forms in a file so that the donor can be called for patch removal at the appropriate time.

Donor’s Responsibilities: Normal activities such as bathing, showering, swimming, excercising, etc., are permitted. When drying the area where the Sweat Patch is applied, gently pat the area with a towel instead of rubbing the area. Hot tubs, tanning booths, prolonged exposures in a sauna, or sweat lodges should be prohibited. The donor must report to applying agency if the Sweat Patch adhesive is failing.

The important points to remember when applying the PharmChek® Sweat Patch are:

1) Choose the area where you will apply the patch.

2) Thoroughly and aggressively clean the skin. The patch will adhere best to skin that has been cleansed of oils, dirt, and dried skin cells.

3) Make sure the patch adheres well to the skin surface by pressing the patch to the skin before and after removing the white border.