Pediatric Med Admin

Question 1

Liquids

Answer 1

easier to swallow
flexible dosing based on age and weight
can add flavors

Question 2

Tablets

Answer 2

if med tastes bad in liquid form
must be able to swallow tables (usually not until 8-10)
some can be chewed/crushed but not all (ex.extended release)

Question 3

Capsules

Answer 3

some may find easier to swallow than tabs
some can be opened and mixed with food and drinks and can be chewed

Question 4

Things to Consider

Answer 4

age
developmental level
length of treatment
swallowing ability
doses per day
ease of ingestion
expense
beliefs systems
family/social factors
med condition
child’s preference
caregiver preference

Question 5

DO…

Answer 5

ask how child takes meds best at home
use medicine syringes and cups
ask child’s flavor preference
mix liquid with a small amount of fluids if not CI
place tab in middle of tongue and follow with a large volume of liquid (can use straws)
encourage caregivers to give meds
reward child when med is taken

Question 6

DONT…

Answer 6

use everyday tbsp and tsp
mix medicine in large volumes
crush meds if CI
be forceful when giving meds

Question 7

Infant Med Admin

Answer 7

squirt small amounts (1 mL) into inner buccal space and wait until infant swallows before giving more

don’t administer directly over tongue (increased risk of choking and spitting out med)

check if meds can be given with formula or human milk as some meds can bind with formula and decrease effectiveness

suppository is an option

Question 8

Toddler Med Admin

Answer 8

may think med is a punishment
may close mouth and refuse to take it
can use dolls to model med admin
parents can give oral meds
offer immediate praise

Question 9

Preschooler Med Admin

Answer 9

can administer oral meds from cup or syringe under supervision
can offer simple explanations why child is getting med

Question 10

School-Age Med Admin

Answer 10

gives choices and as much control as possible
offer praise and rewards
may ask Q’s about meds and what they’re for
allow time for Q’s

Question 11

Adolescent Med Admin

Answer 11

will have greater role in healthcare decisions
will ask more complex Q’s

Question 12

Discharging With Meds

Answer 12

explain purpose, dosing, frequency, SE, drug-drug interactions, therapy duration, what to do if dose is missed/vomited, and how to store med

give written info on all meds, may provide chart and schedule

assess understanding before discharge, provide time for demonstration and return demonstration

allow time for parents to ask Q’s and practice