Question

Nurse is preparing to teach a patient who is to start a new prescription for extended-release verapamil. Which of the following instructions should the nurse plan to include?

A) Crush the medication before swallowing.
B) Take the medication on an empty stomach.
C) Chew the medication for faster absorption.
D) Swallow the medication whole with water.

Answer 1

The nurse should instruct the patient to swallow the medication whole with water when taking extended-release verapamil. Crushing or chewing the medication is not recommended. Taking the medication with or without food is acceptable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should instruct the patient to swallow the medication whole with water when taking extended-release verapamil. Crushing the medication before swallowing or chewing it would alter the drug delivery system, which is specifically designed for extended-release. Taking the medication on an empty stomach is not necessary. The patient can take it with or without food, as directed by their healthcare provider.