You realize that part of Mr. M’s wife’s anxiety stems from her sense that he is uncomfortable, based on the noisy sounds he is making from pooling of oral secretions.
What pharmacologic options are available to decrease secretions?
- Hyoscyamine (Scopolamine®) 0.4 mg SQ q 4-6 h or Scopolamine patch 1.5-3.0 mg q 72 h.
- Glycopyrrolate (Robinol®) 0.2 mg SQ q 4-6 h (can be given by continuous infusion, 0.4-1.2 mg/day IV or SQ).
If the patient does not have IV access, what other pharmacologic option do you have?
Atropine 1% ophthalmic solution 1-2 gtts SL q 1-2 hours.
Non-pharmacologic options to decrease secretions?
Turn the patient onto one side or semi prone.