Chapter 6- Devices for Medication Administration

Question 1

Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI)

Answer 1

1. Deliver medication through the respiratory tract
2. Require coordination and timing

Question 2

Nebulizers

Answer 2

1. Deliver medication to the respiratory tract through a mouthpiece or mask
2. Attached to a source of compressed air that propels medication in the form of very fine particles

Question 3

Spacers

Answer 3

1. Placed on inhaled medication canisters to improve a patient’s administration technique
2. Available in a variety of shapes and size
3. Requires a prescription

Question 4

Nasal Sprays

Answer 4

1. Deliver topical medication to the nasal passages
2. Deliver systemic medication

Question 5

Eye/Ear Droppers

Answer 5

1. Allows patients to administer accurate doses of medication to the eye or ear easily
2. Most medications intended for this use are supplies with a dropper bottle, although it may need to be assembled
3. Eye droppers must be sterile

Question 6

Plunger Applicators

Answer 6

1. Used most commonly to apply medication to the vaginal canal
2. Can be filled with creams or foams to be expelled into the vaginal canal

Question 7

Roll-On Applicators

Answer 7

1. Provide a convenient way to apply gels, lotions, and other topical dosage forms
2. A roller ball is placed on the top of a bottle to allow patients to apply topical medications without having to touch it with their hands

Question 8

Syringes

Answer 8

1. Available in various sized
2. Most commonly used for insulin injections by patients with diabetes
3. Most commonly used in hospital setting
4. Oral or respiratory syringes must not be able to accept a needle

Question 9

Infusion Pumps

Answer 9

1. Deliver parenteral medication at a specific rate
2. Available in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from computerized freestanding pumps to portable pumps that fit under clothing