NursingSprint

✔️ A. Lie down with feet elevated if dizziness occurs while taking this medication:

Nitroglycerin causes vasodilation, which can lead to orthostatic hypotension and dizziness. Lying down with feet elevated helps improve blood flow to the brain and relieve symptoms safely.

✔️ B. Apply the patch daily to a hairless area of the skin:

To ensure optimal absorption, the nitroglycerin patch must be applied to clean, dry, hairless skin (such as the upper arm or chest). Hair can interfere with adhesion and medication delivery.

✔️ D. Remove the patch 12 to 14 hr following application:

A nitrate-free interval (usually 12–14 hours) each day prevents the development of tolerance to nitroglycerin, maintaining its effectiveness for angina prevention.

Educational Insight:

According to cardiology pharmacology standards, nitroglycerin patches are used for chronic angina prevention, and correct application and removal timing are essential to avoid tolerance and maximize therapeutic benefit.

Incorrect Options:

C. The medication will be effective 30 to 45 min following application:

Nitroglycerin patches are for long-term prevention and do not provide rapid relief. They take hours to reach peak levels, unlike sublingual nitroglycerin, which acts within minutes.

E. Remove the patch if you experience a headache:

Headaches are a common side effect due to vasodilation and should not cause patch removal. Instead, mild analgesics like acetaminophen may be used to manage headaches unless symptoms are severe.

F. Place the patch on the same area every day:

The site should be rotated daily to prevent skin irritation and promote even absorption. Repeatedly using the same site can cause dermatitis or reduced effectiveness.