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Medication Administration -Sublingual Policy

Medication Administration – Sublingual Policy 

Purpose: To ensure the safe and effective administration of sublingual medications to residents in compliance with CMS guidelines and the State Operations Manual (SOM) for long-term care facilities. 

Procedure: 

I. Preparation: 

  • Obtain and record any vital signs as necessary prior to medication administration. 

II. Administration: 

  • Place the medication under the resident’s tongue. If the resident is capable, allow them to do this themselves. 

  • Instruct the resident to leave the medication under their tongue until it is completely dissolved. Explain that sublingual medications are generally not properly absorbed if swallowed. 

  • If the resident is unable to comply with the instruction, contact the physician for an alternative dosage form or medication. 

III. Post-Administration: 

  • Cleanse hands thoroughly after administering the medication. 

References: 

  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

  • State Operations Manual (SOM), CMS. 

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