A nurse is teaching a client who has a prescription for ferrous gluconate. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Administer more than one pill to the client at a time: Administering more than one pill at a time may increase the risk of choking, especially for individuals with dysphagia. It's generally advisable to administer one medication at a time to ensure proper swallowing.
B. Tilt the client's head back when administering the medications: Tipping the head backward can increase the risk of aspiration (inhalation of medication into the airways). It is recommended to keep the head in a neutral or slightly forward position to facilitate swallowing.
C. Place the medications on the back of the client's tongue: Placing medications on the back of the tongue may trigger the gag reflex and increase the risk of aspiration. Medications should be placed on the front of the tongue to allow for better control and coordination of swallowing.
D. Mix the medications with a semisolid food for the client (Correct Answer): Mixing medications with a semisolid food, often referred to as "food thickening," can be beneficial for clients with dysphagia. This helps make the medications easier to swallow and reduces the risk of choking or aspiration. However, it is important to check with the healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure compatibility with specific medications.

A. A client received 0900 medications at 0930:
This situation involves a medication administration error where the medications were administered later than the scheduled time. An incident report should be completed to document the error, investigate the circumstances, and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
B. A client who has asthma was administered tiotropium via inhalation:
Tiotropium is an appropriate medication for asthma. As long as it was administered according to the prescribed guidelines, there is no need for an incident report.
C. A client received a blood transfusion with dextrose 5% in water:
This situation involves a significant medication error, as dextrose 5% in water is not the appropriate solution for a blood transfusion. An incident report should be completed to document the error, investigate the circumstances, and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
D. A client received an infusion of lipids through a central line:
If the infusion of lipids through a central line was ordered and administered appropriately, there is no need for an incident report. Lipid infusions are commonly administered through central lines when indicated.