A nurse is administering oral medications to patients. Which action will the nurse take?
Measure liquid medication by bringing liquid medication cup to eye level.
Crush enteric-coated medication and place it in a medication cup with water.
Place all of the client's medications in the same cup, except medications with assessments.
Remove the medication from the wrapper and place it in a cup labeled with the client's information.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Measure liquid medication by bringing liquid medication cup to eye level: This is the correct action. Measuring liquid medications at eye level ensures accuracy and helps the nurse confirm the correct dosage, minimizing the risk of administration errors.
B) Crush enteric-coated medication and place it in a medication cup with water: This option is incorrect. Enteric-coated medications are designed to dissolve in the intestine, not in the stomach, and crushing them can alter their effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. These medications should be administered whole.
C) Place all of the client's medications in the same cup, except medications with assessments: This option is not advisable without knowing how the medications interact. Certain medications may have specific requirements for administration and should not be mixed together, as this could lead to confusion or adverse reactions.
D) Remove the medication from the wrapper and place it in a cup labeled with the client's information: While labeling is crucial for safety, medications should ideally be kept in their original packaging until administration to prevent confusion and ensure that the nurse has all necessary information about the medication at hand. Medications should only be removed when preparing for immediate administration.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Ask the client if he would prefer to give the medication to himself: While involving the client in their care is important, this option does not assess the client’s ability to safely take the medication. The nurse should first ensure that the client can swallow the medication safely.
B) Assess the swallowing reflex by offering a sip of water: This is the correct action. Assessing the swallowing reflex is essential, especially in older adults, to determine if they can safely swallow liquid medications without risk of aspiration.
C) Mix thoroughly in applesauce or pudding: This option is not appropriate unless specifically ordered or indicated. Mixing medications in food may not be suitable for all clients, and it can affect the medication's absorption or effectiveness. Additionally, it does not assess the client's swallowing ability.
D) Assess the ability to understand information relative to the medication: While this is important, it is secondary to ensuring that the client can physically take the medication safely. Assessing understanding can occur after confirming the client’s ability to swallow the medication.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I should let the medication dissolve completely": This statement is correct and indicates that the client understands the proper administration of buccal medication. Buccal medications are designed to dissolve slowly between the gum and cheek, allowing for absorption directly into the bloodstream.
B) "I can only drink water, not juice, with this medication": This option is not accurate for buccal medications. While it is important to avoid swallowing the medication prematurely, there are generally no restrictions against consuming juice unless specified by the healthcare provider.
C) "I better chew my medication first for faster distribution": This statement indicates a misunderstanding. Buccal medications should not be chewed, as this can interfere with the intended slow release and absorption of the medication.
D) "I will place the medication in the same location": While placing the medication in the buccal pouch is important, it is not necessary to place it in the same exact spot every time. Rotating the site can help prevent irritation. This statement does not indicate a complete understanding of the proper technique.