LVN and OTC meds, can we recommend a drug?

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If a patient has gastritis, and complains of a headache, is it permitted for the nurs to recommend an OTC med such as acetaminophen? Given that the patient had askd the nurse what would she recommend?

Thanks:)

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Specializes in Pediatrics, OB/GYN, ER, Geriatrics.

You need to refer them to their doctor! One thing you learn in nursing school is NOT to give out advice. You do not know if an OTC will interfere with other meds the pt is taking. So, to protect yourself and your license, I would not give out advice even if it is an OTC.

Just my 2 cents...

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Thanks Christine, this was a scenario and my class mates and I were wondering what the answer was. Judging by your response and other RN's it's looking more like recommendations are not okay and we have to refer them to their doctor as you said. So I guess we know now:) Thanks again.

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