A nurse receives a prescription for a sustained-release tablet, but the patient cannot swallow it. Which action is safest?

Correct answer: A. Contact the prescriber or pharmacist for a suitable alternative form

  • A. Contact the prescriber or pharmacist for a suitable alternative form
  • B. Crush the tablet and mix it with a small amount of water
  • C. Split the tablet and administer both pieces separately
  • D. Dissolve the tablet in warm water before giving it

Explanation

Sustained-release tablets must not usually be crushed or dissolved because this can release the dose too quickly and cause toxicity. The nurse should obtain guidance about an appropriate liquid, capsule, or alternative medication.

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About Routes and Safe Medication Administration

Safe medication administration covers oral, sublingual, buccal, topical, inhaled, enteral, intradermal, subcutaneous and intramuscular routes, including their absorption patterns and technique. It also includes medication rights, patient identification, documentation, allergy checks, injection site selection and prevention of errors, with route selection distinguished from dosage calculation.

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