Final answer:
The teaching about transdermal nitroglycerin has been effective if the client knows to change the nitroglycerin patch every 24 hours, without any need for swallowing it, applying to hairy skin, or waiting for severe chest pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct response that indicates teaching has been effective about transdermal nitroglycerin (Nitro-Dur) to a client with stable angina is c) "I will change the patch every 24 hours." This understanding is vital, as nitroglycerin patches are typically applied once a day to ensure a steady level of medication in the bloodstream. It's also important to note that these patches are not intended for acute relief of angina pain; instead, they are used to prevent angina episodes. For immediate angina relief, sublingual or spray forms of nitroglycerin are used, which act rapidly by being absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tissues under the tongue.
When applying a transdermal patch, it should be placed on a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin to ensure proper adhesion and absorption. It is generally recommended to rotate sites to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Furthermore, patients should be instructed not to cut patches, which could alter the dosage delivered. Key aspects of nitroglycerin patch use, including the need for compliance, understanding the role of nitroglycerin as a vasodilator that can improve coronary blood flow, and recognizing the importance of proper application, should all be emphasized during patient education.