What should you do if a medication labeled "do not crush" needs to be crushed?

It's essential to prioritize patient safety and medication effectiveness when faced with a medication labeled "do not crush." Crushing a medication can alter its intended release mechanism, lead to increased side effects, or even cause harm to the patient. Therefore, if a medication needs to be crushed despite its label, seeking guidance from the physician is the most appropriate action.

Contacting the physician allows for an assessment of the patient's specific situation, taking into account their needs and any potential risks involved with altering the medication form. This collaboration ensures that any changes to medication administration are safe and effective, while also respecting the established protocols.

Engaging a pharmacist could also be a valid approach, as they possess specialized knowledge about pharmaceuticals. However, the physician is ultimately responsible for prescribing and may provide the most direct order regarding what to do in this particular situation. Administering the medication whole or crushing it without proper guidance could result in negative patient outcomes, making those options less ideal.