A nurse is caring for a client who is taking warfarin and reports taking several new herbal supplements. The nurse should identify that which of the following supplements is contraindicated for concurrent use with warfarin?

A. “Document the updated list and send it to the pharmacy”: While this is an important step in the medication reconciliation process, it is not the first step. The nurse must first have a complete and accurate list of all the medications the client is currently taking.

B. “Compile a list of all medications the client is currently taking”: This is the first step in the medication reconciliation process. The nurse needs to know all the medications the client is currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and any other substances. This list should include the name of each medication, the dose, the frequency, and the route of administration.

C. “Compare preadmission medications to current medications”: This is an important step in the medication reconciliation process, but it cannot be done until after the nurse has compiled a list of all medications the client is currently taking.

D. “Address any discrepancies between current medications and new prescriptions”: Addressing discrepancies is a crucial part of the medication reconciliation process, but it is not the first step. The nurse must first compile a list of all medications the client is currently taking, then compare this list to the client’s preadmission medications and any new prescriptions.

A. “Ask a friend to dispose of the medication in a dumpster”: This is not a safe or recommended method for disposing of unused medications. Medications can be harmful or fatal if they are ingested by children, pets, or anyone for whom they were not prescribed.

B. “Dispose of unused prescription medications in the original packaging”: While it’s important to keep medications in their original packaging while they’re being used, this is not the best method for disposal. The original packaging often contains personal information that should not be shared, and it does not prevent accidental ingestion.

C. “Crush unused opioids and dispose of them in a sealed plastic bag”: Crushing opioids can be dangerous as it can release a potentially lethal dose of the medication. It’s also not recommended to dispose of medications in the regular trash, even if they’re in a sealed bag, as they could still be accessed by children or pets.

D. “Mix unused medications in coffee grounds before disposing of them”: This is the recommended method for disposing of unused medications at home. By mixing medications with an unpalatable substance like coffee grounds, it discourages anyone from ingesting them. The mixture can then be placed in a sealed plastic bag and thrown away in the regular trash. This method helps to prevent accidental ingestion and protects client privacy.