The nurse is to administer several medications to the client via the N

The nurse is to administer several medications to the client via the N/G tube. The nurse’s first ac-tion is to:

1. Add the medication to the tube feeding being given
2. Crush all tablets and capsules before administration
3. Administer all of the medications mixed together
4. Check for placement of the nasogastric tube

ANSWER

ANS: 4
The nasogastric tube should be verified for placement before administering any medication through it. Medications should never be added to the tube feeding. Not all tablets can be crushed, such as sustained release tablets, nor all capsules should be opened. Medications should be reviewed carefully before crushing a tablet or opening a capsule. Medications should be dis-solved and administered separately, flushing between 1 and 30 mL of water between each med-ication.