Most prescription medicines are sold in a child-safe cap packaging and you need a certain level of manual dexterity and strength to be able to open it. While it is important that these devices work perfectly to prevent children from being accidentally intoxicated, in some cases it is difficult to open them, especially if you are an adult who cannot move your arm correctly or has lost strength in the upper limbs due to of an accident or arthritis.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Open the Container Properly
Step 1. Place the medication pack on a flat surface
This way, you can be sure you have a good even grip on the container.
Step 2. Read the label to find out what type of safety cap has been placed on the bottle
There are several models including:
- Push and screw: on the lid there is an arrow pointing downwards or on the label you can read the indication "press".
- Push and Screw: The lid has notches along the edge that help you squeeze and turn it easily.
- With push and screw tab: the lid has a small raised tab that reads "press" and arrows indicating the direction of rotation.
- Alignment: The lid has an arrow pointing down and another is along the edge of the container in the opposite direction.
Step 3. Try to open the container
Since each safety cap has a particular locking mechanism, it is important to respect the correct sequence of movements. If you do not have sufficient motor dexterity to open the bottle without the aid of another method, skip this step.
- Push and screw: press the lid down, unscrew it while maintaining pressure until it opens.
- By pressure and screw: take advantage of the side notches to have a good grip on the cap, press it and at the same time unscrew it until it opens.
- Push Tab and Screw: Use the palm of your hand to push the tab down and twist the cap until it pops open.
- Alignment: Rotate the lid until the arrow on the lid lines up with the arrow on the rim of the container and then remove the cap from the bottle.
Method 2 of 4: Use the Edge of the Table
Step 1. Find a table with a wide edge
That way, you have enough leverage to unscrew the cap.
Step 2. Hold the container so that the bottom of the cap rests against the top of the edge of the table
Basically, you have to wedge the edge of the table between the cap and the body of the bottle.
Step 3. Pull the bowl down with a quick motion and without losing contact with the table
The cap should "click" and the safety device should open.
Another trick you can try is to place the stopper under the edge of the table or kitchen counter. Apply pressure and twist the cap until the mechanism unlocks, while holding the bottle with one hand firmly and firmly
Method 3 of 4: Using a Flat Surface
Step 1. Spin the container on a flat surface
For this purpose use the kitchen table or counter.
Step 2. Press down on the inverted container, using your strongest hand
Apply light pressure to the base of the bottle.
Step 3. Rotate the bottle while holding the cap in place with friction
If possible, grab the cap with one hand to keep it from moving.
Step 4. Stop when the cap makes a "click" or the safety device has unlocked
Then, hold both the cap and the container with your "healthy" hand and twist them both.
At this point, you should be able to lift the cap and open the bottle
Method 4 of 4: Use a Clamp Pliers
Step 1. Purchase a pliers from a home improvement store or online
Choose one made of rubber with non-slip grooves to ensure a good grip.
- There are several models that are produced to help people with poor arm mobility, as they only require the use of the fingers or palm of the hand to apply light pressure and open the container accordingly.
- Alternatively, you can use a small rubber mat, as it offers a firm enough grip to help you open the bottle.
Step 2. Put the pinch pliers on the bowl cap
Hold the bottle steady with the opposite hand if possible.
If you have another rubber mat available, place it under the container so it stays put and you don't have to use your other hand
Step 3. Rotate the pliers with your fingers or the palm of your hand
The very firm grip of the tool should allow you to unscrew the cap correctly and open the bottle.
