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.