Medication Administration - Use of PRN Nifedipine (Procardia) Sublingual Capsules Policy

Medication Administration - Use of PRN Nifedipine (Procardia) Sublingual Capsules Policy 

Purpose: To ensure the safe and effective administration of PRN Nifedipine (Procardia) sublingual capsules to residents, in compliance with CMS guidelines and the State Operations Manual (SOM) for long-term care facilities. 

Procedure: 

I. Preparation: 

• Take the resident’s blood pressure and follow the physician's order regarding parameters for administration. 

II. Administration: 

• Prick the side of the Nifedipine capsule with a sterile needle. 

• Place the capsule under the resident’s tongue and gently squeeze to expel the liquid from within the capsule. 

• Once the liquid is expelled, dispose of the capsule according to facility policy. 

III. Post-Administration: 

• Remove gloves and wash hands thoroughly. 

• Take and record the resident’s blood pressure 10-15 minutes post-administration of the medication. Repeat this process two more times at 10-15 minute intervals. 

• A reduction in blood pressure should occur after 10 minutes. If a reduction has not occurred after 10 minutes, notify the physician immediately. 

Documentation: 

• Document the administration of Nifedipine in the Medication Administration Record (MAR). 

• Record the initial blood pressure, the administration time, and the blood pressure readings taken at 10-15 minute intervals post-administration. 

• Note any observations and the resident’s response to the medication. 

References: 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• State Operations Manual (SOM), CMS.