Which medication administration activity can be delegated to a UAP?

Application of a transdermal patch.

Use of MDIs.

Application of a skin barrier cream to the perineal area.

Instillation of eye drops.

Inserting rectal medications.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Application of a transdermal patch: The application of transdermal patches is typically within the scope of licensed nursing personnel due to the need for appropriate placement, potential absorption risks, and proper documentation. This task requires understanding of the medication's effects, which is outside the scope of a UAP’s duties.

B) Use of MDIs: Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) involve medication administration, which requires client assessment, monitoring of technique, and evaluation of response to therapy. These are skills that a UAP is not trained to handle, as they fall within a licensed nurse's responsibilities.

C) Application of a skin barrier cream to the perineal area: UAPs can apply non-medicated skin barrier creams to protect the skin in the perineal area, as it is a basic care activity. This task does not require specialized training in medication administration and is within the typical role of a UAP for maintaining skin integrity.

D) Instillation of eye drops: Administering eye drops involves medication administration, which includes proper technique, dosing, and monitoring for side effects, making it a task for licensed nursing personnel rather than a UAP.

E) Inserting rectal medications: Rectal medication insertion is a more advanced procedure that requires medication administration knowledge, correct positioning, and monitoring, which are responsibilities designated for licensed nursing staff, not a UAP.

F) Instillation of ear drops: Administering ear drops requires an understanding of dosing, technique, and monitoring for adverse effects, all of which are beyond the scope of practice for UAPs and are typically carried out by licensed nursing staff.

G) Inserting vaginal medications: Vaginal medication administration requires understanding of proper technique and monitoring for therapeutic effects or side effects, which necessitates a licensed nurse’s assessment skills and should not be delegated to a UAP.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Should not be swallowed because it alters the absorption potential: This is the correct explanation. Sublingual medications, such as nitroglycerin, are designed to be absorbed quickly through the mucous membranes under the tongue. Swallowing the medication can significantly reduce its effectiveness and delay absorption, which is crucial for medications used in acute situations like angina.

B) Can be held against the roof of the mouth with the tongue to reduce taste: This option is not correct. Holding the medication against the roof of the mouth does not facilitate the intended sublingual absorption and may not significantly mitigate the taste issue. The medication needs to dissolve under the tongue for effective absorption.

C) Can be inserted rectally without loss of absorption potential: This option is incorrect. Sublingual medications are formulated for absorption through the sublingual mucosa and would not provide the same effects if administered rectally. Different routes of administration have different absorption profiles.

D) Can be taken between the cheek and tongue to diminish taste: While this may help with taste, it does not achieve the desired sublingual absorption. For optimal effect, the medication should be held under the tongue, where it can dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

A. A client who has a question about her daily medications B. A client who needs discharge teaching about an antibiotic C. A client who just received nitroglycerin for chest pain D. A client who would like some acetaminophen (Tylenol) for a mild headache

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) A client who has a question about her daily medications: While it's important to address questions regarding medications, this client does not present an immediate clinical concern that requires urgent attention.

B) A client who needs discharge teaching about an antibiotic: Although discharge teaching is important, it is not an immediate priority compared to the potential instability of a client with chest pain.

C) A client who just received nitroglycerin for chest pain: This is the correct choice. A client who has received nitroglycerin needs to be closely monitored for its effects, including blood pressure and relief of chest pain. This situation is potentially critical, making it the highest priority for assessment.

D) A client who would like some acetaminophen (Tylenol) for a mild headache: While this request should be addressed, it is not as urgent as the need to assess the client who has recently received nitroglycerin. Managing a mild headache is less critical compared to monitoring a client with chest pain.

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Which medication administration activity can be delegated to a UAP?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client complains about the taste of the sublingual nitro-glycerine and admits that he swallows it rather than holding it under his tongue. The nurse explains that sublingual medications:

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse begins a shift on a busy medical-surgical unit and will be caring for multiple clients. Which client does the nurse assess first?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client has been prescribed eye drops for the treatment of glaucoma. The nurse is observing the client self-administer the eye drops. Which action by the client requires further teaching?

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Which medication administration activity can be delegated to a UAP?