A patient asks how to apply transdermal nitroglycerin. What is the nurse's best response?

Choice A rationale While the chest is a common site for patch application, it is not mandatory to apply the patch directly over the heart. The patch can be applied to any hairless area of the body to allow for optimal absorption of the medication through the skin. Choice B rationale Transdermal nitroglycerin patches are designed to provide a continuous, sustained release of the medication. Applying two patches at a time can lead to an overdose, resulting in severe hypotension, headache, and dizziness. Patients should be instructed to apply a new patch each day and remove the old one. Choice C rationale Hair on the skin can interfere with the adherence of the patch and the absorption of the medication. Applying the patch to a hairless area ensures that the medication is in direct contact with the skin, allowing for proper transdermal delivery and therapeutic effect. Choice D rationale Applying petroleum jelly to the skin before applying a transdermal patch can create a barrier that prevents the medication from being absorbed. This would render the patch ineffective. The skin should be clean, dry, and free of any lotions or creams before patch application.