The nurse is to administer acetaminophen to an unconscious patient.Which medication formulations may safely be administered to the patient?

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Unconscious patients are unable to swallow any oral formulations of medications so only intravenous or suppository medications are appropriate to administer.The form of the medication determines its route of administration.Manufacturers make many medications in several forms,such as tablets,capsules,elixirs,and suppositories.Suppositories are solid dosage form mixed with gelatin and shaped in the form of a pellet for insertion into a body cavity (rectum or vagina).A suppository melts when it reaches body temperature,allowing the medication to be absorbed.A tablet is a powdered medication compressed into a hard disk or cylinder and designed to be taken orally.Elixirs and suspensions are liquid formulations designed to be taken orally by patient who are unable to swallow pills.

The Nurse Is to Administer Acetaminophen to an Unconscious Patient