The nurse is preparing to administer a medication in tablet form ...

[debasdf]

The nurse is preparing to administer a medication in tablet form to a patient. In administering this medication, the nurse will encourage the patient to
 
  a. drink a large amount of water prior to administration so that swallowing is easier.
  b. place the medication on the front of the tongue.
  c. keep the head forward while swallowing.
  d. minimize the amount of fluid taken following medication administration.

Question 2

The nurse is administering an oral medication to a 90-year-old patient who has difficulty swallowing pills. One of the medications to be administered is a spansule type capsule.
 
  What nursing consideration(s) should be applied in this case? (Select all that apply.)
  a. Wash hands before preparing medications and before administration.
  b. Crush medications and administer with a soft food, such as applesauce.
  c. Check the patient's ID band with the MAR to ensure patient rights are followed.
  d. Have an 8-ounce glass of water available.
  e. Check with the pharmacist to see if the spansule medication comes in a liquid form.

[nickk12214]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The patient should be encouraged to keep the head forward while swallowing. The patient should be allowed to drink a small amount of water to moisten the mouth so that swallowing the medication is easier. The patient should be instructed to place the medication well back on the tongue. Drinking a full glass of fluid should be encouraged to ensure that the medication reaches the stomach and is diluted to decrease the potential for irritation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, C, D, E
Hands should be washed before and after medication preparation. Always check the patient's identification before administering medication. Have water available to the patient when administering this medication. Giving the medication in liquid form, if available, would be much more comfortable for the patient. Spansule medications are time released and should not be crushed.