Special Situations

Question 1

What can you remedy when a client won’t take a medication due to an unpleasant taste?

Answer 1

Offer crackers, an apple, or juices afterward to help cover up bad taste
Use ice to numb the taste buds for a few minutes before the client takes the medication
Discuss this issue with the delegating RN to see if the client could use a different form of medication

Question 2

What can you remedy when a client won’t take a medication due to an unpleasant side effect?

Answer 2

An example of this is: drowsiness or dry mouth. Ask the delegating RN if a different medication is a possibility or if the medication can be taken at a different time of day. If this cannot be done, discuss how to treat the medications side effect.

Question 3

What can you remedy when a client won’t take a medication due to a lack of understanding.

Answer 3

Provide simple reminders like “this pill lowers your high blood pressure”

Question 4

What can you remedy when a client won’t take a medication due to a denial of need for medication.

Answer 4

You can discuss the need to take the medication with the client, but do not argue. It may help show the client a statement written by the doctor. The client has the right to refuse medication.