A client is nauseated, has been vomiting for several hours, and needs

A client is nauseated, has been vomiting for several hours, and needs to receive an antiemetic (anti-nausea) medication. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is accurate?

1. An enteric-coated medication should be given.
2. Medication will not be absorbed as easily because of the nausea.
3. A parenteral route is the route of choice.
4. A rectal suppository must be administered.

ANSWER

ANS: 3
The parenteral route provides a means of administration when oral medications are contraindi-cated. Onset of action is quicker. There is less cause for embarrassment than with a rectal suppos-itory. An enteric-coated medication is given orally. Because the client is vomiting, the oral route should not be used. Nausea does not affect the rate of absorption. It is inaccurate to state that a rectal suppository must be administered. A rectal suppository is one option. The disadvantage of a rectal suppository is that insertion often causes embarrassment for the client. It is contraindi-cated if there is rectal bleeding or if the client had rectal surgery. Stool in the rectum can impair absorption.