Final answer:
You should not apply more than three Lidoderm patches at one time to avoid the risk of lidocaine overdose. The patches should be left on for no more than 12 hours within a 24-hour period.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the use of Lidoderm patches, which are topical analgesics containing lidocaine, used to relieve nerve pain after shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia). According to medical guidelines, it is advised to apply no more than three Lidoderm patches at a time to avoid the risk of lidocaine overdose, which can lead to serious side effects. It's important to only use the number of patches prescribed by a healthcare professional, and they should be applied to intact skin, avoiding areas that are blistered or irritated.
When using Lidoderm patches, make sure that the patches are left on for no more than 12 hours within a 24-hour period. After 12 hours of use, the patches should be removed to give the skin a rest. Appropriate usage is critical to avoid any potential toxic effects of lidocaine accumulation in the bloodstream.