The nurse is caring for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis who takes Celebrex (celecoxib). The patient is on a pureed diet, and the nurse from the previous shift reported some difficulty with oral pills. Which of the following actions by the nurse is best?
A) Hold the medication.
B) Call the pharmacy to obtain a substitute medication that comes in liquid form.
C) Call the physician to request a different pain medication.
D) Open the capsule and sprinkle granules on applesauce.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Opening the capsule and sprinkling the granules on applesauce is an appropriate action for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills. It is important to ensure that the medication can be given safely in this manner and that it will still be effective. Celebrex granules can be sprinkled on applesauce, making it easier for the patient to take the medication. Holding the medication (A) or calling the pharmacy to obtain a substitute (B) or calling the physician to request a different medication (C) may not be necessary or effective in this situation.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis