A client who uses transdermal contraceptive, calls to the clinic because she forgot to apply a new patch three days ago. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client?

A. Wait until the last day of your next menstrual period to apply the patch: Delaying application until the end of the next menstrual cycle would leave the client unprotected from pregnancy for several weeks. This increases the risk of ovulation and potential conception. B. Wait until Sunday to apply the new patch and use the same site: Waiting until a specific day like Sunday is not appropriate in this case because the gap in application has already exceeded the safe window. Reusing the same site may increase the risk of skin irritation. C. If a pregnancy test is negative, apply the next patch immediately: While ensuring the client is not pregnant is important, a delay for testing before resuming the patch would further prolong the period without hormonal protection. The priority is to restart hormonal coverage as soon as possible to minimize the risk of pregnancy. D. Apply the new patch today and use a backup method for 7 days: Restarting the patch immediately restores hormonal contraceptive coverage, while using a backup method like condoms for 7 days provides additional protection until hormone levels are adequate.