A nurse in a provider's office is assisting in the care of a client. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include when reinforcing teaching to the client about their medication? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Lie down with feet elevated if dizziness occurs while taking this medication.: Dizziness may occur due to hypotension caused by nitroglycerin. Elevating the feet can improve blood flow to the brain and alleviate symptoms. B. Apply the patch daily to a hairless area of the skin.: The patch should be applied to a clean, dry, and hairless area to ensure proper adhesion and absorption of the medication. C. The medication will be effective 30 to 45 min following application.: Nitroglycerin patches are used for long-term prevention of angina, not immediate relief, which is provided by sublingual or spray formulations. The patch takes several hours to reach full effect. D. Remove the patch 12 to 14 hr following application.: Removing the patch for 12 to 14 hours each day prevents tolerance to the medication. This is typically referred to as a "nitrate-free" interval. E. Remove the patch if you experience a headache.: Headaches are a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to vasodilation. Clients should not remove the patch but may use analgesics like acetaminophen to manage the headache. F. Place the patch on the same area every day.: The patch site should be rotated daily to prevent skin irritation.