A client who has been taking fentanyl (Duragesic) for several weeks should be advised to

• A. Limit physical activity
• B. Taper slowly
• C. Rub medication into skin
• D. Increase the dosage when pain persists

Answer: (B)

When stopping long‑term fentanyl therapy, a slow taper is best. Fentanyl is a potent opioid, and extended use creates physical dependence, so quitting abruptly can trigger withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, sweating, muscle aches, GI upset) and rebound pain. Gradually reducing the dose or patch exposure over days to weeks lets the body adjust and minimizes withdrawal while preventing sudden loss of analgesia.

Rubbing the medication into the skin isn’t how the patch is designed to work and can alter absorption, potentially causing overdose or inadequate relief. Limiting physical activity isn’t necessary as a general rule, and increasing the dose when pain persists would raise the risk of overdose and further dependence.