In the administration of enteral medications, the nurse recalls that these medications:
Always need to be ordered by the healthcare provider.
Include the oral, feeding tube, and rectal routes of administration.
Are primarily administered into a muscle or a vein.
Are a part of the parenteral route of administration.
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Enteral medications are uniquely designed for absorption through the digestive tract, making them an important option for patients who can swallow or those with feeding tubes. For instance, administering medications via feeding tubes requires special formulations to ensure that the medication doesn’t clog the tube and is properly absorbed, an essential practice in patient care.

It’s vital for nurses to be aware of potential common mistakes when administering enteral medications, such as crushing tablets or opening capsules that aren’t designed for this method. Some medications, like those with extended-release formulations, could lose their effectiveness or lead to higher toxicity levels if altered, so always check the guidelines before making any changes!