Final answer:
The correct behavior indicating understanding of the discharge teaching for transdermal nitroglycerin is that the client removes the old patch before applying a new one. Application should be to a clean, dry, and hairless area of the skin, typically on a daily basis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The client with coronary artery disease (CAD) has been prescribed transdermal nitroglycerin to help dilate coronary vessels and improve blood flow to the heart muscle. The correct behavior that indicates the client understands the discharge teaching concerning this medication is option b. The client removes the old patch before replacing the new. Transdermal nitroglycerin patches are applied to the skin to provide a consistent dose of medication over a specified period, typically 24 hours unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
It is crucial to remove the old patch before applying a new one to prevent any potential side effects from overdosing and to ensure the new patch adheres correctly to the skin. The patches should also be applied to a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin to ensure proper absorption. It is not placed under the tongue since that is a method used for immediate relief of angina with sublingual tablets, not transdermal patches. Changing the patch every 36 hours would be incorrect unless specifically prescribed that way, as most patches are designed for daily application. Applying a patch to a hairy area would impair absorption and is also not advised.