What precaution should a nurse take when applying topical nitroglycerin paste?

When applying topical nitroglycerin paste, wearing gloves during the application is crucial to prevent unintended exposure to the medication. Nitroglycerin is a potent vasodilator, and even a small amount absorbed through the skin can cause significant effects, including hypotension or other systemic side effects. By wearing gloves, the nurse protects themselves from potential absorption, ensuring that only the intended patient receives the medication.

Ensuring that the patient is sitting can be beneficial for safety, especially given that nitroglycerin can cause a drop in blood pressure, but it does not specifically address the safe application of the medication. Applying the paste directly onto the heart is neither practical nor effective, as the paste should be placed on a non-hairy area of the skin to ensure proper absorption. Moreover, using it with food is not relevant, as nitroglycerin paste is typically applied on the skin and does not interact with food in this context. Therefore, the most important precaution is the use of gloves to maintain safety during the application process.