Question

A 72-year-old woman with a history of stroke and atrial fibrillation is admitted with community-acquired pneumonia. She is NPO due to aspiration risk. She normally takes apixaban and multiple oral medications. According to best practice for medication reconciliation and safety, which action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Use alternative routes or parenteral equivalents where appropriate and document intentional holds, involving pharmacy if needed

Answer

Continue all oral medications as prescribed despite NPO status

Answer

Hold all medications until she can swallow safely

Answer

Ask family to bring her pills from home and administer them covertly

Answer

Discontinue anticoagulation permanently

Practice question