IPH - Hour 3 - Routes or Administration

Liquid Oral Medications

Liquid medications are generally more rapidly and more fully absorbed than solid oral medications. This is especially true when taken on an empty stomach.

It is important for the nurse to know the specific form of liquid. Some liquids need to be thoroughly shaken. Other liquids contain ingredients that may cause harm to certain populations.

Solution. A solution is a liquid that's evenly distributed. It doesn't matter what part of a solution is taken, there is always the same amount of medication. Solutions do not require shaking. Normal saline is an example of a solution.

Syrup. Syrups are flavored and contain a high amount of sugar. Diabetics need to exercise caution with syrups. Children need to understand that medicine, even good tasting medicine, is not candy. Syrups are thicker than solutions.

Emulsion. An emulsion contains oil and water. Like salad dressing, emulsions don't stay mixed well and require vigorous shaking before pouring.

Suspension. A suspension doesn't contain fat or oil, but then, neither does it stay well mixed. The solid particles tend to settle to the bottom, creating a layer of sludge covered by the thin watery liquid. Suspensions must also be shaken well before pouring.

Elixir. Elixirs contain alcohol ( ETOH ), so should seldom be given to children or alcoholics. Alcohol routinely interacts negatively with all other medications and may seriously potentiate or inhibit the actions of other medications. Care must also be taken with the administration of elixirs to persons subject to work-related drug and alcohol testing. Elixirs have some flavoring, but are generally not as sweet or as thick as syrups.

Tincture. A tincture is another medication containing alcohol ( ETOH ). Tinctures contain no sugar. They are very concentrated and likely to be very bitter. Oral tinctures generally are ordered in very small amounts, usually drops, and should be diluted in water or juice before swallowing.

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