What is an important action to take after the applicator has been inserted?

After the applicator has been inserted, an important action is to wipe away any excess medication. This is crucial because excess medication can lead to unintentional overdosing, which may cause adverse effects. By removing the extra medication, you help ensure that the proper dose is administered and that the resident receives the intended therapeutic benefits without the risk of complications from excess.

Wiping away excess medication also promotes proper hygiene and prevents the risk of contamination or irritation to the surrounding skin or mucous membranes. This step is especially important in the context of applying topical or inserted medications where maintaining a clean application area is paramount.

While monitoring vital signs, asking about discomfort, and removing the applicator all have their importance, the action of wiping away excess medication directly addresses the safe and effective administration of the medication itself, ensuring that the process adheres to best practices in patient care.