patches and sleeping always equaled weird dreams for me...
if i could afford to not get the best sleep, i'd sleep with a patch on and have the craziest dreams!!!
but weekdays (worknights) i'd take the patch off just before bed, easier to fall asleep and more restful...
as for vaping/smoking/chewing nic products while on the patch: if you need more nic, you need more nic. you cannot quit until you are comfortable... you will notice nausea, headaches, sweats if you have TOO much, at that time cut down...
so. if you feel comfortable at 3 smokes and the patch a day. do that for a couple days, then start to cut down.
Good luck!