Fundamentals of Nursing Q 420
Which of the following types of medications can be administered via gastrostomy tube?
A. Any oral medications.
B. Capsules' whole contents are dissolved in water.
C. Enteric-coated tablets that are thoroughly dissolved in water.
D. Most tablets designed for oral use, except for extended-duration compounds.
Correct Answer: D. Most tablets designed for oral use, except for extended-duration compounds
Most tablets designed for oral use, except for extended-duration compounds can be administered via gastrostomy tube. Drug therapy can be complicated in hospitalized patients requiring an enteral feeding tube (EFT). Some medications may be given via an EFT while others are unsuitable for this form of administration.
Option A: Inappropriate drug selection for EFT administration can cause potential toxicity, reduced efficacy, and tube obstruction. Therefore, it is important to know which drugs may be altered for EFT administration as well as appropriate therapeutic alternatives that can temporarily be substituted for those that may not be given via that route.
Option B: It is preferable to utilize a liquid dosage form whenever possible for EFT administration especially if the patient has a small-bore feeding tube. If an appropriate liquid preparation is not available, the dilution of crushed tablets or the contents of capsules may be necessary prior to EFT administration.
Option C: Capsules, enteric-coated tablets, and most extended duration or sustained-release products should not be dissolved for use in a gastrostomy tube. They are pharmaceutically manufactured in these forms for valid reasons, and altering them destroys their purpose. The nurse should seek an alternate physician’s order when an ordered medication is inappropriate for delivery by tube.