Name of the Procedure:

Administration of Oral, Intramuscular, and/or Subcutaneous Medication
Common Name(s): Medication Administration
Technical Term: T1502

Summary

This procedure involves a healthcare professional administering medication to a patient either orally (by mouth), intramuscularly (by injection into a muscle), or subcutaneously (by injection under the skin). This service is provided per visit to ensure that patients receive their prescribed medications properly and safely.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Chronic illnesses requiring regular medication
• Acute conditions needing immediate medication delivery
• Preventative treatments, such as vaccines

Goals:

• Ensuring correct dosage and administration of medication
• Enhancing therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence to prescribed treatment plans
• Monitoring and managing potential side effects or reactions

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Inability to self-administer medication
• Need for precise dosage that requires professional monitoring
• Situations where immediate delivery of medication is crucial

Patient Criteria:

• Chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease
• Acute conditions requiring prompt medication
• Patients with mobility or cognitive impairments

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Follow specific medication guidelines provided by the healthcare provider
• Inform the provider of all current medications and allergies
• No special preparation is typically needed; follow any specific instructions as advised

Assessments:

• Routine medical history review
• Allergy check

Procedure Description

Steps:

1. The healthcare provider verifies the medication and patient details.
2. For oral medications, the patient is handed the medication to take by mouth.
3. For intramuscular or subcutaneous injections:
   • The site is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
   • The needle is inserted at the appropriate angle into muscle (intramuscular) or under the skin (subcutaneous).
   • The medication is injected, and the needle is withdrawn.
   • The site is covered with a small bandage if necessary.

Tools and Equipment:

• Medication (pills, liquids, or injections)
• Syringes and needles for injections
• Antiseptic wipes, bandages

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes a few minutes per medication administration.

Setting

• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Community health center
• Home (conducted by a visiting healthcare professional)

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Physician or Physician Assistant (PA)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minor pain or discomfort at the injection site
• Mild allergic reactions

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Infection at the injection site
• Incorrect dosage leading to adverse effects

Benefits

• Accurate and timely administration of medication
• Increased patient adherence to medication regimen
• Immediate management of side effects or reactions

Realization of Benefits:

• Benefits are usually seen almost immediately, especially for acute conditions.
• Long-term benefits include better management of chronic conditions and improved overall health.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Monitor for any immediate allergic reactions
• Keep the injection site clean and dry

Recovery Time:

• Generally immediate; no extended recovery period required
• Return to usual activities right after administration

Follow-ups:

• Regular follow-ups as advised by the healthcare provider

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Self-administration of medication (if patient is capable)
• Automated medication dispensers
• Oral medications substituted for injections if applicable

Pros and Cons:

• Self-administration allows for independence but requires reliable capacity.
• Automated dispensers ensure adherence but may be costly.
• Oral medications are easier to take than injections but may not be as fast-acting.

Patient Experience

During Procedure:

• Mild discomfort for injections
• Generally painless for oral medication

After Procedure:

• Slight soreness at the injection site
• Immediate health benefits based on medication purpose
• Pain management: Topical analgesics or ice packs for injection site discomfort if needed.