Studying for NCLEX? Or are you a new nurse and want to learn how to easily remember the drug categories you can NOT crush?
Look no further! Here is a mnemonic to help you remember the five groups of drugs you can NOT crush.
Mnemonic:
Seniors erroneously crush enteric-coated laxatives
Seniors: abbreviation for the seniors is: SR (sustained released)
Erroneously: ER (extended release)
Crush: CR (controlled release)
Enteric-coated: EC
Laxatives: LA (long acting)
Crushing Medication Tips
- If possible, consult with the physician or pharmacists on switching medications to liquid form or IV form. However, liquid form may not be an option for people who need honey or nectar thick liquids for swallowing difficulties.
- Don’t crush all the patient’s medications at the same time and mix them ALL in applesauce/water or in a enteral syringe with water…do this individually.
- Always assess swallowing status before administering oral medications, and placement of feeding tube per hospital protocol.
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