Final answer:
The most appropriate action for a nurse when administering medication to a child in day care is to seek parental consent. Crushing medication or administering it directly may only be done according to regulations and the medication's properties. C) Crush the medication and mix it with the child's favorite drink and D) Explain the purpose of the medication directly to the child
Step-by-step explanation:
When preparing to administer medication to a 4-year-old in a day care center, a nurse should follow several steps to ensure the medication is given safely and correctly. The best course of action would depend on the policies of the day care center and any legal requirements in the region.
However, the general practice would usually be option A, to ask the child's parents for permission to administer the medication. It is crucial as the parents or legal guardians must consent to medication administration in a childcare setting. Option B, requesting the child to swallow the medication directly from a cup, may be viable if the child is cooperative and the medication is suitable for this form of administration, while option C, crushing the medication, should only be done after consulting a pharmacist or the prescribing physician to ensure it does not alter the medication’s efficacy or safety.
Option D, explaining the purpose of the medication directly to the child, is good practice and can help the child understand the importance of taking their medication, but it does not replace the need for parental consent.