While collecting a medication history, the patient admits to doubling the recommended dosage of an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, saying its harmless or they would require a prescription. What is the nurses best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: OTC drugs are no less a medication than prescription drugs and carry the same types of risks for overdosage and toxicity if directions are not followed. Although increasing the dosage is careless and dangerous, it is important to use the information as a teaching opportunity rather than scolding the patient. Agreeing with the patient or asking her if she talked to the doctor misses the teaching opportunity, which could be harmful for the patient.