Discharge planning for clients leaving the hospital should include instructions on the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Which comment by a client would demonstrate a good understanding of OTC drugs?

The question is incomplete, the complete question is:

Discharge planning for clients leaving the hospital should include instructions on the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Which comment by a client would demonstrate a good understanding of OTC drugs?

a) "OTC drugs have been around for years and have not been tested by the FDA."

b) "OTC drugs are different from any drugs available by prescription and cost less."

c) "OTC drugs are always safe and will not cause bad effects."

d) "OTC drugs are thought to be safe when taken as directed."

The correct answer is D

Explanation:

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are drugs sold directly to a consumer without a doctor's prescription or from a health care practitioner. This is opposed to presciption drugs, which may be sold to only customers with a valid prescription. Over-the-counter drugs can be purchased right off the shelves at a store - without a visit with the doctor or consultation with a pharmacists.

Unlike prescription drugs, OTC drugs are not intended for specific individuals. OTC drugs are reviewed by the United States Food and Drug Administration division (FDA). They (FDA) evaluate the ingredients and labels of the drugs according to the established monographs for each product. The monograph contains acceptable ingredients, doses, formulations, and labeling for each product.

Hence, OTC drugs are safe and effective to use as long as the directions on the label on how to use them are followed. All OTC drugs should contain a "Drug Facts" label, which should be read by users before usage or be properly guided by health care professionals in case of further inquiries. They can cause side effects if used inappropriately (overdose).