If a patient has difficulty swallowing solid medications, what should be done?

The appropriate course of action for a patient who has difficulty swallowing solid medications is to consult a nurse for guidance. This is critical because trained healthcare professionals can assess the specific needs of the patient and determine the best alternative options. Possible solutions may include crushing the medication, if permissible, or using a liquid formulation instead. Each medication has different properties, and not all medications can be crushed due to concerns about altering their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. Thus, involving a nurse ensures that the approach taken is safe and medically appropriate.

In contrast, skipping the medication without an alternative could compromise the patient's treatment plan. Increasing the dosage of a solid medication may lead to safety concerns and overdosing, which is not a feasible solution for managing the patient’s difficulty. Finally, administering the medication only with thickened liquids does not address the underlying issue and may still pose a risk if the patient cannot safely swallow solids in any format. Therefore, consulting a nurse remains the most effective and responsible option.