The patches do work, but it needs the full 12 week course. Don't be a hero.
I think keeping them on 24 hours is essential, since the first cigarette of the day is a pretty important one. I would get that new patch on quick-smart in the morning and rub to hell! Then I'd take it off for a shower and stick it back on with band-aids.
Crazy as it sounds, everyone I know who has actually done it for the full 12 weeks has succeeded. Been off cigarettes for 11 years now, and had tried and failed before until given this way to do it. Where folk fail I think is after that first week where the hero thing kicks in; keep the support going for as long as possible.
Best of luck with however you choose to do it.
Now, as soon as I can also kick whisky, prostitutes and cake I'll be fine. :animal_rooster: