How should you administer oral meds to a resident with dysphagia?

• A. Use approved strategies, ensure proper form and swallowing safety, avoid forcing; consult nurse for alternate forms or methods.
• B. Crush all pills and mix with water without checking with nurse.
• C. Forcefully administer with water to ensure swallowing.
• D. Skip medication if not sure about swallowing.

Answer: (C)

Safety during oral med administration for someone with swallowing difficulties centers on protecting the airway and following approved methods. The best approach is to use strategies and forms that are approved by the prescriber and pharmacist, keep the resident in an upright position to reduce aspiration risk, and never force a tablet or to push fluids aggressively to help swallowing. If a medication cannot be taken safely in its current form, consult the nurse for an alternate form or route before proceeding. Crushing pills or altering them without explicit approval can change how the medicine works and may be dangerous, especially for controlled- or time-release preparations. Only use crushes or alternative methods when the team has confirmed it’s appropriate, and follow policy on how to mix with food or liquids. If there are signs of trouble swallowing—coughing, choking, or gurgling—pause and seek guidance rather than continuing.