Parenteral

Definition

Parenteral administration involves delivering medications by injection through routes such as intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous. It bypasses the gastrointestinal tract for quicker absorption and effect.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parenteral routes include intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), and intradermal (ID).
2. Intravenous administration provides the fastest drug action onset.
3. Aseptic technique is crucial to avoid contamination and infection during parenteral drug administration.
4. Common complications of parenteral administration include pain at the injection site, infection, and allergic reactions.
5. Parenteral administration is often used when patients cannot take oral medications or when rapid drug action is required.

Review Questions

• What are the four main types of parenteral administration?
• Why is aseptic technique important in parenteral drug administration?
• In what situations might a nurse choose parenteral over oral medication?

Related terms

Intravenous (IV): Injection directly into a vein for immediate drug effect.

Intramuscular (IM): Injection into a muscle, allowing for slower absorption than IV but faster than subcutaneous.

Subcutaneous (SC): Injection into the tissue layer between the skin and muscle for sustained release of medication.