ORAL MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION PROCEDURE
- Apr 24
- 2 min read
1. Definition
Oral medication administration is the process of giving drugs through the mouth to achieve systemic or local therapeutic effect.
2. Purpose
To provide therapeutic effect of medication
To relieve symptoms
To prevent or treat disease
To maintain health
3. Indications
Patient able to swallow
Routine medication administration
Long-term treatment
4. Contraindications
⚠️ Avoid in:
Unconscious patient
Vomiting patient
Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
NPO (nil per oral) status
5. Articles / Equipment
🧰 Equipment:
Medicine tray
Medicine cup
🧴 Supplies:
Prescribed medication
Water
Spoon / dropper (if needed)
📋 Records:
Medication chart / MAR (Medication Administration Record)
6. Patient Preparation
Explain procedure to patient
Check doctor’s order
Assess ability to swallow
Ensure correct patient identification
7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)
Wash hands thoroughly before handling medication.
Check the doctor’s order and medication chart carefully.
Follow the 6 rights of medication administration:
Right patient
Right drug
Right dose
Right route
Right time
Right documentation
Identify the patient using name and ID.
Prepare the medication on a clean tray.
Measure correct dose using medicine cup or spoon.
Take medication to the patient’s bedside.
Explain the medication to the patient.
Assist the patient to sit in upright position.
Give the medication with a glass of water.
Ensure the patient swallows the medication completely.
Do not leave medication at bedside unattended.
Observe the patient for any immediate reaction.
Return the medication tray and clean equipment.
Wash hands after the procedure.
Document the medication administration immediately.
8. Post Procedure Care
Monitor for therapeutic effect
Observe for side effects
Ensure patient comfort
Report any abnormal findings
9. Complications
Aspiration
Drug reaction
Overdose or underdose
Medication error
10. Health Education
Take medication as prescribed
Do not skip doses
Do not self-medicate
Report side effects
Follow proper timing
🎯 Viva Questions
Q1. What are the 6 rights of medication?👉 Right patient, drug, dose, route, time, documentation
Q2. Why should patient sit during oral medication?👉 To prevent aspiration
Q3. Can oral medication be given to unconscious patient?👉 No
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