Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

A patient is accustomed to taking medications at night but has a dose scheduled for 0900. What should the nurse do?

1. Explain the importance of maintaining a routine administration time

2. Ask the pharmacist to provide education on BP medications

3. Remind the patient they won't be working post-discharge

4. Contact the pharmacy to change administration times

The correct answer is: Contact the pharmacy to change administration times

The best course of action is to contact the pharmacy to change the administration times for the medication. This option recognizes the patient's established routine for taking their medications at night, which can be significant for adherence and overall effectiveness of the treatment. By aligning the administration schedule with the patient's preferences, the nurse not only supports the patient's routine but also helps promote better compliance with the medication regimen. Moreover, some medications may have specific guidelines regarding administration times that could affect their efficacy or the patient's comfort level. While other responses offer valuable input on medication adherence and patient education, they don't prioritize the immediate concern of addressing the medication schedule. By facilitating a schedule that accommodates the patient’s needs, the nurse demonstrates understanding and respect for the patient's preferences, which can foster a more positive therapeutic relationship and improve health outcomes.