The nurse is teaching a client who will use a clonidine transdermal patch. Which statement is correct?

• A. Change the patch daily at the same time.
• B. Remove the patch before taking a shower or bath.
• C. Do not take other antihypertensive medications while on this patch.
• D. Get up slowly from a sitting to a standing position.

Answer: (D)

Clonidine delivered through a transdermal patch lowers blood pressure by reducing sympathetic outflow, which can lead to orthostatic hypotension. That means standing up quickly may cause dizziness or fainting, so getting up slowly from a seated or lying position helps prevent lightheadedness and falls.

The patch is worn for about a week, applied to intact skin, and isn’t changed daily. It stays on during showers, so removing it for bathing isn’t required. You typically continue other antihypertensive medications but monitor for additive blood pressure lowering. Heat can increase absorption, so avoid applying external heat sources to the patch. These points explain why moving slowly on standing is the safest, most appropriate instruction.