Medication refusal

Nurses LPN/LVN

Published

I new nurse (LPN), and I have a pt that refused to wake up and take his meds!!! I at least like him to look conscience when I give him the meds, and needless to say he doesn't... And I have to check his FSBS... Which he barely moves for. So I have done the FSBS first then tried to wake him, but still nothing... I'm giving the pt Prilosec and megace (appetite stimulator). Any suggestions!! So my question is at what point should it be a refusal? I don't want the man to choke.

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What time are you trying to wake him up? Those meds only need to be given 30 minutes before breakfast.

Over the years I've seen some truly weird times to give meds. Can you have the time changed?

It's like giving Immovane at 2300 when the patient is asleep or Zantac at 06 and breakfast is 0830

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

Well yeah, if he's not alert enough you can't give him any meds.Is this normal for this patient? What is their medical condition? It's not really a refusal but it sounds like he may be unable to take his meds.Can you give it to him when he is awake?

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Hi yea it's the normal condition of the pt. yes it's given w/I compliance. I try to make him last on my round.... But!!! I do the best I can.. It's just how long should I try to arouse the pt?

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

Ummmm I think you mean "rouse" the patient. Arouse means something a little different.lol

Is the patient like this all the time or just early in the morning. Maybe they need to change his med times.

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Ummmm I think you mean "rouse" the patient. Arouse means something a little different.lol Is the patient like this all the time or just early in the morning. Maybe they need to change his med times.

Yes very true... Rouse the pt !!!! Lol

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Ummmm I think you mean "rouse" the patient. Arouse means something a little different.lol

Actually, either ("rouse" or "arouse") is correct usage. :)

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

Is the patient like this all the time or just early in the morning. Maybe they need to change his med times.

Thats my question too.

Difficult to awaken, appetite stimulant...is he depressed? Mornings are worse for depressed patients, so they may be more amenable to a late BF & meds.

In any event, the patients natural circadian rhythms may not be inline with hospital convenience.

What happens if offered later in the day?

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Actually, either ("rouse" or "arouse") is correct usage. :)

Not up here in the great white north. We had the difference beaten into us in nursing school.

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Not up here in the great white north. We had the difference beaten into us in nursing school.

And what is the difference? :)

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Arouse, commonly used pertaining to readiness for sexual activity.

And what is the difference? :)
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Specializes in Pain, critical care, administration, med.

Why not adjust the time he gets his meds?

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