Routes of Administration Flashcards
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Read the first 6 Routes of Administration flashcards as text
A resident is prescribed a sublingual medication. How should the Medication Aide administer this drug?
Answer: Under the resident's tongue.
Sublingual administration involves placing the medication under the tongue to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the rich network of blood vessels there. This route allows for rapid absorption and bypasses the digestive system.
When preparing to apply a new transdermal patch, which of the following is the MOST important initial step for the Medication Aide?
Answer: Removing the previous patch and cleaning the site.
Before applying a new transdermal patch, it is critical to remove the old one to prevent overdosing the resident. The skin under the old patch should then be cleansed and dried to remove any residual medication and ensure the new patch adheres properly.
A resident is ordered a medication to be administered via the buccal route. The Medication Aide should place the tablet:
Answer: between the cheek and the gum.
Buccal administration involves placing the medication in the buccal pouch, which is the space between the cheek and the gum. The medication dissolves and is absorbed through the mucous membranes directly into the bloodstream.
A Medication Aide is assisting a resident with a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Which instruction is essential for ensuring the medication is delivered effectively into the lungs?
Answer: Shake the inhaler well right before use.
Shaking the metered-dose inhaler before each use is crucial to mix the medication with the propellant, ensuring a uniform and correct dose is delivered with each puff.
A resident requires a rectal suppository. To facilitate proper administration and comfort, the Medication Aide should position the resident:
Answer: on their left side with the upper knee bent.
The recommended position for administering a rectal suppository is the Sims' position, where the resident lies on their left side with their upper (right) knee bent toward their chest. This position straightens the anorectal angle, making insertion easier and more comfortable.
Which of the following routes of administration allows for the fastest absorption of medication into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system?
Answer: Sublingual (under the tongue)
The sublingual route offers rapid absorption because the medication dissolves and passes directly into the rich blood supply under the tongue. This bypasses the first-pass metabolism in the liver that occurs with oral medications, allowing the drug to enter the systemic circulation quickly.