Medication Administration Techniques

Medication Administration

• Larger body systems absorb medication more quickly.
• Strong circulation facilitates faster absorption of medication through tissues and target cells.
• Biotoxicity can arise with a lack of proper organ function.
• Medications can be administered in the cheek or under the tongue.
• In the case of a patient with an NG tube, medication can be administered past the stomach and into the small intestine.
• Medication absorption is slower in the small intestine compared to other routes.
• Patients should lie on their side to ensure complete medication administration via an NG tube.
• Pain medication can be offered following a procedure.
• Insulin and TB test are two examples of medications that may be administered via an IV.
• Flushing the IV line with saline solution is recommended after administering medications to prevent crystallization.
• IV piggyback medication should be administered above the pump to control the drips and ensure the prescribed medication is delivered in a small volume infusion.
• Antibiotics often serve as the first medication administered via an IV piggyback line.

Medication Dose and Timing

• The onset of medication action represents the initial point of efficacy.
• The plateau signifies the peak concentration of medication in the blood.
• The half-life of a medication refers to the time it takes for its concentration in the blood to reduce by half.
• Lab values should be assessed to determine medication concentration before administering the next dose.
• Medications, particularly pain medications, often require an end time for administration.
• Verbal prescriptions for pain medication should be documented multiple times.

Patient Advocacy and Support

• Involve caregivers in medication administration and patient care.
• Encourage patient morale and support their home preparedness for medication management.
• Assess financial needs and aid the patient in obtaining necessary resources.
• Engage social work professionals to address medication access challenges and implement new plans if needed.
• Ensure patients can afford and take their medications.
• Teach patients to differentiate between similar-looking medications to enhance safety and avoid medication errors.

This quiz covers essential techniques for medication administration, including routes of absorption and considerations for patient care. Learn about factors that affect medication effectiveness, such as body systems, circulation, and proper procedures for administering medications via NG tubes and IVs.