just took an exam and the question was when do you give phosphate binders? just before a meal or after meal? i know that phosphate binders are given WITH meals. I've read they can be given 5-10 b4 meals or immediatelly after meals or no longer than 20-30 mins after meal since phosphate is absorbed pretty fast once in the GI.

i picked after meals because if i give it just before meal that's technically giving it on an empty stomach.

You might debate and say its before meals because you dont know a how long "after a meal".. but i would say to you that you also dont know if the patient took the phosphate binder just before meal, and that meal tray never showed up, or that patient had a reaction to the med and starter vomitting.. now that patient probably cant eat..

i just want some back up.. any other suggestions you might have for me so when i go and do the test review... ihave enough info to back up my decision.

is this a case where they should take both answers?