What should you do if a patient is extremely difficult to wake and unable to swallow their medications?

The correct action in this scenario is to hold the medications and notify your supervisor. This approach is essential for several reasons.

First, safety is the paramount concern when it comes to medication administration. If a patient is extremely difficult to wake, it raises significant concerns about their ability to safely swallow the medications. Administering medications to someone who may not be fully conscious could lead to choking, aspiration, or ineffective absorption of the medication, which could compromise the patient’s health.

Second, notifying a supervisor ensures that the situation is escalated to someone who can make informed decisions based on the patient’s overall care plan. This may involve medical evaluation or alternative methods of medication administration that are more appropriate given the patient's condition.

Ultimately, holding the medications not only protects the patient's safety but also aligns with protocols that prioritize proper medication administration under the right conditions. This careful consideration reflects adherence to professional standards and regulations governing medication technicians.