Question

a nurse is teaching about self-administration of transdermal medication with a client who has a new prescription for nitroglycerin. which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

\i can apply the patch to a chest area that has hair.\
\i can take this medication while using an erectile dysfunction product.\
\i will remove the patch after 14 hours.\
\i need to apply a new patch to the same area every day.\

Explanation:

Evaluate patch application site

Using the Nitroglycerin Transdermal Patches knowledge point

• Transdermal patches must be applied to clean, dry, hairless skin to ensure proper absorption.
• Applying a patch to an area with hair prevents adequate contact with the skin, reducing drug delivery.

Analyze drug interactions

Using the Nitroglycerin Transdermal Patches knowledge point

• Nitroglycerin is a potent vasodilator.
• Concurrent use of nitrates with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (erectile dysfunction products like sildenafil) is strictly contraindicated due to the risk of severe, life-threatening hypotension.

Evaluate wear time and nitrate-free interval

Using the Nitrate Tolerance Prevention knowledge point

• To prevent tolerance, patches are typically worn for 12 to 14 hours and then removed for a 10- to 12-hour nitrate-free interval daily.
• Removing the patch after 14 hours correctly provides the necessary nitrate-free period.

Evaluate site rotation

Using the Nitroglycerin Transdermal Patches knowledge point

• Application sites must be rotated daily to prevent skin irritation and breakdown.
• Applying the patch to the same area every day is incorrect.

Answer:

• "I can apply the patch to a chest area that has hair."
• "I can take this medication while using an erectile dysfunction product."
• "I will remove the patch after 14 hours." (Correct answer)
• "I need to apply a new patch to the same area every day."