DSSSB - 29 August 201…: Nasally administered medication are typically?

DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Pharmacology

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The nasal passage is lined with a mucous membrane rich in blood vessels, which allows for rapid absorption of medications.
Liquid preparations, such as drops and sprays, can easily coat this membrane, ensuring effective and quick drug delivery into the systemic circulation.
This route bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, avoiding first-pass metabolism in the liver for certain drugs.
The term 'In liquid form' is the most accurate and comprehensive choice as it encompasses both nasal drops and nasal sprays, which are the standard preparations for this route.

Option A: Crushed tablets are not designed for nasal administration. The solid particles can cause severe irritation, inflammation, and damage to the delicate nasal mucosa. There is also a high risk of aspiration into the lungs.
Option B: Similar to crushed tablets, the powder from opened capsules is not suitable for nasal administration. It can lead to mucosal injury, unpredictable absorption, and risk of aspiration.
Option D: While drops are a common form of nasal medication, this answer is too specific and incomplete. It excludes other common liquid forms, such as nasal sprays.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain This question tests the knowledge of medication administration routes, specifically the appropriate formulation for nasal delivery as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Patient Safety: Administering medication via the correct route and in the proper form is fundamental to patient safety. Using an incorrect form, like a crushed tablet nasally, can cause harm.
Therapeutic Efficacy: The form of a drug is designed to optimize its absorption and action. Using the intended liquid form for nasal administration ensures the patient receives the therapeutic benefit.
Patient Education: Nurses must educate patients on the correct technique for using nasal drops or sprays to ensure the medication reaches the intended site and to prevent wastage or side effects.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'Nasally administered medication' and 'typically'. This directs you to think about the most common and appropriate form for the nasal route.
Recall the anatomy and physiology of the nasal passages. The nasal mucosa is thin and has a rich blood supply, making it suitable for rapid absorption.
Consider which physical form of medication would work best with this anatomy. A liquid can spread over the mucosal surface, while a solid cannot.
Evaluate the options. 'Crushed tablets' and 'Opened capsules' are solid particles and would be harmful. Eliminate these immediately as unsafe.
Compare the remaining options: 'In liquid form' and 'Drops'. 'Drops' are a type of liquid, but so are sprays. 'In liquid form' is a broader category that includes both.
Select the most comprehensive and accurate answer. Since nasal medications include both drops and sprays, 'In liquid form' is the best description.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: This question tests the knowledge of medication administration routes, specifically the appropriate formulation for nasal delivery.
Stem keywords: Nasally administered, medication, typically
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE

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