When the nurse brings pills to the patient, the patient is unable to hold the paper cup with the medications. What should the nurse do?

Choice A reason: Crushing pills can alter drug efficacy and safety, especially for medications with controlled-release properties, making this inappropriate without specific provider instructions. Choice B reason: Requesting a liquid form accommodates the patient’s physical limitations, maintaining therapeutic integrity and ensuring safe and effective medication administration. Choice C reason: Introducing pills directly into the patient’s mouth risks aspiration and violates safe administration practices, emphasizing the need for alternative methods. Choice D reason: If the patient struggles to hold the cup, self-administration becomes impractical. Assistance through appropriate alternative forms ensures compliance and safety.