Question

The physician has ordered that the client's medication be administered intrathecally. The nurse is aware that medications will be administered by which method? A. Intravenously B. Rectally C. Intramuscularly D. Into the cerebrospinal fluid

Short answer

Answer: Into the cerebrospinal fluid.

Step-by-step solution

Define Intrathecal Administration

Intrathecal administration is a method of medication delivery in which the medication is introduced directly into the cerebrospinal fluid that fills the spinal canal and covers the brain.

Analyze the Given Choices

Now that we know what intrathecal administration is, let's look at the four given choices and determine which one best fits the definition. A. Intravenously: This method involves administering medications directly into the bloodstream through a vein. This is not intrathecal. B. Rectally: This method involves administering medications through the rectum, typically in the form of suppositories. This is not intrathecal. C. Intramuscularly: This method involves injecting medications into muscle tissue. This is not intrathecal. D. Into the cerebrospinal fluid: This method involves introducing medications directly into the cerebrospinal fluid that fills the spinal canal and covers the brain. This matches the definition of intrathecal administration.

Choose the Correct Answer

Based on our analysis, the correct answer is option D: Into the cerebrospinal fluid. The nurse is aware that medications ordered to be administered intrathecally will be introduced directly into the cerebrospinal fluid.

Key concepts

NCLEX-PN Exam Questions

Understanding the NCLEX-PN exam questions is crucial for aspiring nurses. These questions are designed to assess a candidate's knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice. In the context of the given exercise regarding intrathecal medication administration, a typical NCLEX-PN question presented a clinical scenario and required the recognition of the correct medication administration route.

To effectively approach such questions, it is important to be familiar with the terminology and specific characteristics of various administration routes. Nursing students can improve their chances of correctly answering these questions by studying the different routes, such as intravenous, rectal, intramuscular, and intrathecal, and understanding the clinical situations in which each is used. Memorization of key features and regular practice with pharmacology-related questions is beneficial. Additionally, taking the time to carefully read and analyze the question before choosing the answer is a skill honed through consistent practice.

Medication Administration Routes

Medication administration routes are the paths by which drugs are brought into contact with the body. Nurses must have a clear understanding of each route, as this knowledge is essential for ensuring accurate medication delivery and patient safety. The major routes include oral, topical, intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous, rectal, and intrathecal.

Oral Administration

Taking medication by mouth is the most common route and involves absorption through the digestive tract.

Topical Application

Drugs applied to the skin or mucous membranes are absorbed directly into the local tissue.

Intravenous (IV) Injection

This method delivers medication directly into the bloodstream, offering rapid systemic effects.

Intramuscular (IM) and Subcutaneous Injections

These involve injecting medication into muscle tissue or under the skin, respectively.

Rectal Administration

Medication is inserted into the rectum where it is absorbed by the surrounding tissue.

Intrathecal Administration

This specific route, as highlighted by the exercise, involves the direct delivery of medication into the cerebrospinal fluid, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. It is often used for antibiotics or chemotherapy agents.

By studying these routes and their applications, nursing students can improve their understanding and recall, thus enhancing their ability to provide safe patient care and succeed in exams like the NCLEX-PN.

Pharmacology for Nurses

Pharmacology is a foundational science for nurses that involves the study of how drugs interact with biological systems. It is integral to all aspects of patient care, from preventing and treating disease to managing and understanding potential side effects. For those studying for the NCLEX-PN exam, solid pharmacology knowledge includes understanding drug mechanisms, therapeutic uses, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications.

In the context of medication administration routes, such as the intrathecal route discussed in the exercise, nurse pharmacology education focuses on the drugs that are administered via this route, their indications, required dosages, and specific considerations like sterility and technique to avoid complications. For example, intrathecal medications must be preservative-free to prevent neurotoxicity.

Emphasizing the learning of high-risk medication classes, such as anticoagulants, insulin, and sedatives, is also essential due to their potential harm if administered improperly. Engaging in continuous education and staying updated with the latest pharmacological guidelines leads to better patient outcomes and professional growth for nurses.