Practice Question
Which method are for administering drugs by parenteral routes? (Select all that apply.)
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Subcutaneous
Rationale:
✅ A. Subcutaneous (SubQ)
💉 The subcutaneous route involves injecting medication into the layer of fat and connective tissue just beneath the skin but above the muscle.
💉 It is commonly used for medications that require slow, sustained absorption, such as insulin, heparin, and certain vaccines.
💉 Common injection sites include the abdomen, thighs, and upper arms.
💉 This method is easy to administer, often used in outpatient or home settings, and is suitable for self-administration with proper education.
✅ B. Intramuscular (IM)
🧠 Intramuscular injections deliver medication deep into the muscle tissue, where there is a rich blood supply, allowing for faster absorption than the subcutaneous route.
🧠 It is commonly used for vaccines (e.g., flu shot), pain medications (e.g., ketorolac), and antibiotics (e.g., penicillin).
🧠 Typical injection sites include the deltoid muscle (arm), vastus lateralis (thigh), and ventrogluteal or dorsogluteal areas (hip/buttocks).
🧠 The IM route is beneficial when a rapid onset is needed and the medication is too irritating for subcutaneous tissue.
✅ D. Intradermal (ID)
🩺 The intradermal route delivers a small volume of medication into the dermis, just beneath the outer layer of skin.
🩺 It is primarily used for diagnostic purposes, such as the tuberculin skin test (PPD) and allergy testing, where a visible skin reaction is needed.
🩺 Absorption is slow and localized, making it ideal for observing delayed hypersensitivity responses.
🩺 Common sites include the forearm or upper back, and a small wheal or bubble forms at the site when injected correctly.
✅ E. Intravenous (IV)
💊 Intravenous administration involves injecting medication directly into the vein, entering the bloodstream immediately.
💊 This is the fastest and most precise route for systemic drug effects, often used in emergencies, surgery, and critical care.
💊 It allows for continuous infusion, intermittent dosing, or IV push (bolus) delivery methods.
💊 The IV route is essential for drugs requiring tight control, such as cardiac medications, sedatives, antibiotics, and chemotherapy agents.
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This question is from ATI LPN Pharmacology Exam III which contains 53 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: LPN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: LPN ATI Exams
- Domain: Pharmacology
- Answer Choices: 5