ATI Pharmacology Test Bank Related

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A client has difficulty swallowing medications and is prescribed enteric-coated aspirin PO once daily. The client asks if the medication can be crushed to make it easier to swallow. Which of the following responses should the nurse provide?

  • A. Crushing the medication might cause you to have a stomachache or indigestion.
  • B. Crushing the medication is a good idea, and I can mix it in some ice cream for you.
  • C. Crushing the medication would release all the medication at once, rather than over time.
  • D. Crushing is unsafe, as it destroys the ingredients in the medication.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Crushing an enteric-coated medication can cause it to break down in the stomach instead of the intestines, potentially leading to gastrointestinal distress like stomachache or indigestion. It is important to take enteric-coated medications whole to ensure they are properly absorbed in the intestines and to prevent irritation to the stomach.