Medication Administration Routes to Know for Foundations of Nursing Practice

Understanding medication administration routes is essential in nursing practice. Each method, from oral to intravenous, has unique benefits and considerations. This knowledge ensures safe and effective patient care, allowing nurses to choose the best route for medication delivery.

1. Oral administration

   • Most common route for medication delivery; includes tablets, capsules, and liquids.
   • Absorption occurs in the gastrointestinal tract, influenced by factors like food and pH.
   • Generally safe and convenient, but not suitable for patients who are vomiting or unconscious.

2. Sublingual administration

   • Medications are placed under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
   • Bypasses the digestive system, leading to quicker onset of action.
   • Ideal for drugs that are poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract or need immediate effects.

3. Intramuscular injection

   • Involves injecting medication directly into a muscle, allowing for faster absorption than oral routes.
   • Common sites include the deltoid, vastus lateralis, and gluteus maximus.
   • Suitable for larger volumes of medication and certain vaccines.

4. Subcutaneous injection

   • Medication is injected into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin.
   • Slower absorption compared to intramuscular injections, making it suitable for medications like insulin.
   • Common sites include the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.

5. Intravenous administration

   • Direct delivery of medication into the bloodstream, providing immediate effects.
   • Allows for precise control over drug levels and is used for emergencies and critical care.
   • Requires sterile technique and monitoring for potential complications like phlebitis.

6. Topical application

   • Medications are applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes for localized effects.
   • Includes creams, ointments, and gels; minimal systemic absorption.
   • Useful for treating skin conditions or delivering localized pain relief.

7. Transdermal patches

   • Medications are delivered through the skin via adhesive patches for systemic effects.
   • Provides a controlled release of medication over time, improving patient compliance.
   • Commonly used for pain management, hormone replacement, and smoking cessation.

8. Rectal administration

   • Medications are inserted into the rectum, where they can be absorbed by the rectal mucosa.
   • Useful for patients who are vomiting, unconscious, or unable to take oral medications.
   • Can provide local effects (e.g., for hemorrhoids) or systemic effects (e.g., fever reduction).

9. Inhalation

   • Medications are delivered directly to the lungs via inhalers or nebulizers.
   • Provides rapid onset of action, especially for respiratory conditions like asthma.
   • Requires proper technique to ensure effective delivery and minimize side effects.

10. Intranasal administration

    • Medications are delivered through the nasal mucosa for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
    • Bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and first-pass metabolism, leading to quicker effects.
    • Useful for certain medications like naloxone and migraine treatments.