Unit 4 Oral Medication Flashcards
Cardinal Rules of Medication Administration
Always –>Ten-rights; 3 checks
NEVER–> admin a med you did not prepare
YOU are legally liable if you cause harm to a pt from medication you administer
Characteristics
Absorbed mainly in the small intestine
Slower onset
Prescription in higher doses than parental route
NEVER direcly touch oral meds
Advantages/ Benefits of Oral Medication
Most Common, Least Expensive, Most Convient
Decreased risk for infection (does not break skin barrier)
Disadvantages
Unpleasant taste
Irritation of gastric mucosa
Irregular/ slow absorption
Stains teeth
Contraindicated (inappropriate) for
Oral Medications
N/V NPO Can't Swallow/ Dysphagia Unconscious Potential for aspiration
Alterations in Absorption (po)
food in stomach
Rate of Gastric Emptying
slow gastric empty –> prolongs absorption
increase gastric empt –>decrease absorption
Gastric Suctioning
- med withheld/ give by alt. route
- may (w/ order) give this route and hold suction for (20-30 MINS)
Changes in the Elderly that affect response
Decreased LIVER & KIDNEY function Decreased gastric mobility, acid production, blood flow to GI -->impaired absorption Decreased Protein Binding Sites Multiple drugs Increased Adipose Tissue
The decreased number of Protein Binding Sites
Alters the blood-brain barrier–> Fat soluble drugs reach brain –> dizziness and confusion
Increased body fat–> decreased total body fluid =
drug toxicity (more easily)
Solid Froms of Oral Medications
Tablets
Capsules
Lozenges
Powders
Tablets
Powered medications &/or other substances compressed into hard disks
May be scored,crushed –> easier swallowing
Coated Tablets
NEVER broken, crushed, chewed
Protects against environment/ Conceals bitter taste
Delays absorption until intestines (Enteric Coated)
Prevents damage to gastric mucosa
Chewable Tablets
Contains flavoring, sweeteners
ALWAYS follow with H20 –> dissolve & absorb
Good for pt who can’t swallow intact dose
Effervescent Tablets
disintegration in solution
Rapid onset action
Ex: antacids & analgesics
Time Released
Released & absorbed gradually (in stages)
Pt take fewer pills per day
Do NOT crush, chew, or break open