Discharge planning for patients leaving the hospital should include instructions on the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Which comment by the patient would demonstrate a good understanding of OTC drugs?

Question

A) "OTC drugs are safe and do not cause adverse effects if taken properly."
B) "OTC drugs have been around for years and have not been tested by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)."
C) "OTC drugs are different from any drugs available by prescription and cost less."
D) "OTC drugs could cause serious harm if not taken according to directions."

Answer 1

D
Feedback:
It is important to follow package directions because OTCs are medications that can cause serious harm if not taken properly. OTCs are drugs that have been determined to be safe when taken as directed; however, all drugs can produce adverse effects even when taken properly. They may have originally been prescription drugs that were tested by the FDA or they may have been grandfathered in when the FDA laws changed. OTC education should always be included as a part of the hospital discharge instructions.