Question

A physician has prescribed enteric-coated tablets for the client. The nurse knows the following is true about enteric-coated tablets: a. The tablets should be administered with antacids. b. The tablets are designed to carry drugs that may irritate the stomach. c. The tablets are designed to dissolve in the stomach. d. The tablets should be crushed.

Short answer

b. The tablets are designed to carry drugs that may irritate the stomach.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Key Concept

Enteric-coated tablets are designed with a special coating.

Understand the Purpose of Enteric-Coating

Enteric-coating is used to prevent the tablet from dissolving in the stomach and instead allows it to dissolve in the intestines.

Review Each Option

a. Should the tablets be administered with antacids? The coating prevents irritation, so this is unnecessary. b. Are the tablets designed to carry drugs that may irritate the stomach? Yes, this is correct. c. Are the tablets designed to dissolve in the stomach? No, they dissolve in the intestines. d. Should the tablets be crushed? Crushing would destroy the coating, so no.

Select the Correct Answer

Based on the above review, the correct answer is b. The tablets are designed to carry drugs that may irritate the stomach.

Key concepts

drug administration

When it comes to administering medication, understanding the type of tablet prescribed is crucial. Enteric-coated tablets have a special coating that is essential for their function. These tablets are specifically designed to withstand the acidic environment of the stomach. Instead, they dissolve in the alkaline environment found in the intestines. This ensures that the medication is released in the correct area of the digestive system, maximizing its effectiveness.
To properly administer enteric-coated tablets:

• Do not crush or chew them as it will destroy the coating.
• Avoid taking them with antacids or anything that alters stomach acidity.
• Follow the prescribed timings and dosages carefully.

Proper drug administration ensures that the medication works as intended and minimizes any potential side effects.

medication safety

Safety is paramount when dealing with medications. Enteric-coated tablets are often prescribed to protect the stomach lining from drugs that can cause irritation. Crushing or breaking the tablet compromises this safety feature and can lead to gastric irritation or reduced efficacy.
To ensure medication safety:

• Always follow the prescription details and instructions provided by healthcare professionals.
• Consult your pharmacist or doctor before making any changes to how you take your medication, including combining it with other substances like antacids.
• Store your medication properly, away from moisture and direct light, to maintain its effectiveness.

Adhering to these safety guidelines helps in achieving the desired therapeutic outcomes while minimizing risks.

pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs interact with the body. Understanding how enteric-coated tablets work can provide insight into their role in treatment plans. The main advantage of enteric-coated tablets is that they release the active ingredient in the intestines rather than the stomach. This delayed release can be crucial for:

• Protecting the stomach lining from irritant drugs.
• Ensuring the drug is absorbed in the optimal part of the digestive tract.
• Improving patient compliance by reducing gastrointestinal side effects.

Knowledge of pharmacology helps healthcare providers choose the right form of medication to ensure maximum benefit and minimal adverse effects for patients.