Question

"When is the administration of an oral medication contraindicated? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

1.When the patient is unconscious
2.When the patient is an older adult
3.When the patient has gastric suction
4.When the patient is a 5-year-old child
5.When the patient is awaiting surgery"

Answer 1

Oral medications are contraindicated when the patient is unconscious, has gastric suction, or is awaiting surgery. These conditions increase the risk of inadequate absorption of the medication or the risk of aspiration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The administration of oral medication is contraindicated in several situations. Particularly, it is not indicated:

1. When the patient is unconscious, as they cannot swallow and are at a high risk for aspiration.
2. When the patient has gastric suction in place, which would remove the medication before it can be absorbed.
3. When the patient is awaiting surgery and needs to have an empty stomach to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia administration.

Being an older adult or a 5-year-old child are not, in themselves, contraindications for oral medications. However, special considerations for dosage and route may apply based on age and the patient's ability to swallow the medication correctly.