A patient who is strictly vegetarian due to religious beliefs has been prescribed a medication contained in a gelatin capsule. Which nursing actions are indicated? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Standard Text: Select all that apply

Question

1. Do not tell the patient the capsule contains gelatin.
2. Collaborate with the prescriber to find an alternative medication.
3. Check to see if the capsule can be opened for administration.
4. Work to convince the patient that this application does not violate vegetarian beliefs.
5. Tell the patient that the gelatin is an inactive ingredient in the medication.

Answer 1

2,3

Rationale 1: Withholding information regarding the medication is not ethical.
Rationale 2: An alternative dosage form that does not require use of a gelatin capsule may be available.
Rationale 3: Many capsules can be opened and the contents placed in fluid or on soft food for administration.
Rationale 4: If the patient is strictly vegetarian the use of a gelatin capsule is a violation of belief. The nurse should not try to influence the patient otherwise.
Rationale 5: Whether the gelatin is an active ingredient or an inactive ingredient is not relevant.
Global Rationale: An alternative dosage form that does not require use of a gelatin capsule may be available. Many capsules can be opened and the contents placed in fluid or on soft food for administration. Withholding information regarding the medication is not ethical. If the patient is strictly vegetarian the use of a gelatin capsule is a violation of belief. The nurse should not try to influence the patient otherwise. Whether the gelatin is an active ingredient or an inactive ingredient is not relevant.