Problem
Mr. Douglas is 79 years old and has a diagnosis of CVA, sinus congestion and gout of the right foot. Today he is having a nap when you enter the room on your rounds. His sister called to say he forgets what medications he is taking and he does not know why he is taking them. She stated that he seems more confused today. When you try to administer his medication, he has difficulty swallowing and you notice that he is very congested in his sinuses.
The Doctor's orders are as follows:
Vitamin C 500mg PO daily
Dristan nasal mist, i - ii sprays q8h prn for nasal congestion
Tylenol Elixir 650mg PO q4h
Ativan 0.5 mg SL q6h prn for anxiety
Answer the following questions:
1. What precautions exist regarding these medications and the elderly?
2. If the Tylenol Elixir bottle has 325mg/ml, how many ml would you give?
3. Why could Mr. Douglas be more confused today than he was previously?
4. Create Mr. Douglas' MAR.
5. Is there anything regarding the history of Mr. Douglas and the medications ordered that you may look into further?
6. It is 2000h. Following the nursing process, administer Mr. Douglas's medications.