Fundamentals of Nursing Q 506
A client complains of difficulty swallowing when the nurse tries to administer capsule medication. Which of the following measures should the nurse do?
A. Dissolve the capsule in a glass of water.
B. Break the capsule and give the content with applesauce.
C. Check the availability of a liquid preparation.
D. Crush the capsule and place it under the tongue.
Correct Answer: C. Check the availability of a liquid preparation.
The nurse should check first if the medication is available in liquid form before doing Choice A. The swallowing of capsules can be particularly difficult. This is because capsules are lighter than water and float due to air trapped inside the gelatine shell. In comparison, tablets are heavier than water and do not float.
Option A: The physical properties of capsules predispose them to floating in the mouth when taken with water. As a result, the swallowing of capsules can be problematic. In patients who experience such difficulty, it is suggested that they try leaning forward when swallowing, as this has been found to assist. It may be necessary to reassure patients about this technique as they may initially find it unnatural to execute.
Option B: Some tablets, pills and capsules don’t work properly or may be harmful if they’re crushed or opened. Most capsules are intended to be swallowed whole so patients should be encouraged to trial the ‘lean-forward’ technique. If swallowing difficulties remain other options, such as a liquid or tablet form of the medicine, can be considered.
Option D: Placing it under the tongue is not the intended way of administering an oral medication. Crushing the medication may alter the medicine’s effects. You shouldn’t chew, crush or break tablets or pills, or open and empty powder out of capsules unless your GP or another healthcare professional has told you to do so. Some tablets, pills, and capsules don’t work properly or may be harmful if they’re crushed or opened.