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Oral (PO)

Medication is swallowed and absorbed through the digestive system.

Sublingual (SL):

Medication is placed under the tongue for rapid absorption.

Buccal:

Medication is placed between the cheek and gum for absorption.

Topical:

Medication is applied directly to the skin for local effect.

Transdermal:

A medicated patch delivers drug through the skin into the bloodstream.

Inhalation:

Medication is breathed into the lungs for fast respiratory effect.

Ophthalmic:

Medication is administered into the eyes.

Otic:

Medication is administered into the ears.

Rectal (PR):

Medication is inserted into the rectum for systemic or local effect.

Vaginal:

Medication is inserted into the vagina, usually for local effect.

Subcutaneous (Subcut):

Medication is injected into the fatty tissue under the skin.

Intramuscular (IM):

Medication is injected into a muscle for faster absorption.

Intravenous (IV):

Medication is given directly into the vein for immediate effect.

Standing Orders:

Pre-written orders for specific circumstances or patient populations.

One-Time (Single) Orders:

Administered once at a specific time.

PRN ("Pro-re-Nata") Orders:

As needed, based on patient condition or symptoms.

STAT ("Statim") Orders:

Administered immediately, typically within 30 minutes.

Controlled Substances:

Orders are not automatically refilled; new prescriptions are needed for extensions.

Principles of Drug Administration

1. Right Patient

2. Right Medication

3. Right Dose

4. Right Route

5. Right Time

6. Right Assessment

7. Right Evaluation

8. Right Documentation

9. Right to Refuse

10. Right Education

11. Right Reason

Drug Administration Guidelines

• Wash hands

• Check allergies 

• Use at least 2 identifiers

  • Check/Scan armband & ask name and DOB

  • Be alert when there are two patients with the same name

• Check order

• Check label 3 times!!!

• Check expiration date if present

• Recheck drug calculation(s)

• Make sure patient has taken the meds

Guidelines for Controlled Substances

• Store in locked secure cabinets 

• Count with another RN at change of shift

• Follow facility protocol to dispose of unused substances

Guidelines for Controlled Substances

• Store in locked, secure cabinets.

• Count with another registered nurse (RN) at the change of shift.

• Follow facility protocol for disposing of unused substances.

“Do Not Use” Abbreviation Mini List

• Trailing zero after whole number (2.0 mg)

  • Write “2 mg”

• Lack of leading zero (.2 mg)

  • Write “0.2 mg”