Medication Administration Routes 1 Flashcards

Which medication administration route involves placing a tablet or liquid under the tongue to dissolve?

Answer: Sublingual

Sublingual administration places medication under the tongue, where it absorbs rapidly through the mucous membranes directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.

A resident is ordered an oral medication. Which of the following actions is correct when administering it?

Answer: Ensure the resident is sitting upright or has the head of bed elevated

Residents should be upright or have the head of bed elevated when taking oral medications to reduce the risk of aspiration, which can cause serious respiratory complications.

Which route of administration delivers medication directly into the nostril?

Answer: Intranasal

Intranasal administration delivers medication directly into the nasal passages, where it can be absorbed through the nasal mucosa for either local or systemic effects.

A resident has a medication ordered as a 'topical ointment for the left forearm.' What does this mean?

Answer: The medication is applied to the skin surface on the left forearm only

Topical medications are applied directly to the skin surface at a specific location. The order specifies the left forearm, so the ointment must only be applied to that site.

Which form of medication is typically used for vaginal administration?

Answer: Suppository or cream

Suppositories and creams are the common forms used for vaginal administration. They are designed to dissolve or spread within the vaginal canal to deliver medication locally.

When administering ear drops, what should the QMAP do to straighten the ear canal in an adult resident before instilling the drops?

Answer: Pull the outer ear upward and backward

In adults, gently pulling the outer ear (pinna) upward and backward straightens the ear canal, allowing drops to reach the eardrum more effectively.