When it comes to baby medications, the correct dosage and method of administration are both critical to get their condition properly treated and to also be safe and avoid complications. Since babies are unable to communicate their symptoms, parents and caregivers have to be extra careful when it comes to administering the right medications, as needed.
The proper dosage and route of administration can vary depending on the medication. Continue reading to find out the proper dosage and routes of administration for baby medications.
Proper Dosage
As a parent, it’s important to give your baby the correct dosage of every medication. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Always follow the directions given by your baby’s doctor or the instructions that come with the medication. Always read and follow the text that comes with prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving any medication to your baby. This includes over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. The doctor will recommend the right medication for your baby based on their symptoms.
- Make sure you understand the instructions for giving the medication. Ask questions if you’re not sure how much or how often to give it.
- Use a syringe or dropper to measure out the correct amount of medicine every time. Do not try to estimate the amount without these tools. Most medications will come with a syringe or dropper. It is best to use the device that each product comes with rather than your own, as they can have different sizes and measurement lines on them.
Routes of Administration
Make sure you know how to properly administer medications before giving them to your baby. Some medications need to be taken orally (by mouth), while others may require injection or another type of application method. If you have any questions about how to give your child their medicine, ask their doctor or pharmacist for help.
There are four main ways to administer medication to babies: orally (by mouth), rectally (through the rectum), topically (applied to the skin), and intramuscularly/subcutaneously (injected into the muscle or under the skin). The most common route of administration for baby medications is oral, followed by topical, rectal, and then intramuscular/subcutaneous.
Oral Administration
Medications can be given orally either in liquid form or as a pill/capsule. Liquid medications should be measured using an oral syringe or dropper and given slowly, so your baby does not choke. Pills/capsules can be crushed and mixed with a small amount of milk or water before being given. It is important to follow instructions when giving medication orally, as some drugs are meant to be taken on an empty stomach, while others need to be taken with food.
Rectal Administration
Some medications can be given rectally if your baby cannot take them orally. This route should only be used if specifically directed by your baby’s healthcare provider, as it carries a risk of causing injury if done incorrectly. The medication will come with instructions on how to administer it properly. If you have any questions, ask the doctor or pharmacist for help.
Topically
If your baby has a rash, you may need to apply medication topically. Before applying the medication, make sure your hands are clean, so wash them with soap and water. Then, apply the medication to a clean, dry area of the skin. Avoid broken or irritated skin. Use only enough medication to cover the affected area lightly. Rub it gently until it disappears completely into the skin. Make sure your baby doesn’t accidentally ingest the medication by licking the skin.
Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Injection
Intramuscular and subcutaneous injections involve injecting medication directly into the muscle or just under the skin. This method of administration is usually performed only by medical doctors. Parents and caretakers may need to administer injections if their baby has a health condition that requires daily injections. If this is required, the doctor or pharmacist will train you on how to do it properly and safely.
Urgent Care for Pediatric Patients in King, NC
Cardinal Urgent Care provides friendly urgent care services for pediatric patients, including acute medical care, vaccinations and immunizations, and physical exams. Our urgent care providers can take care of all your baby’s non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses. We also provide guidance on proper dosage and route of administration of medications.
Since Cardinal Urgent Care is a walk-in clinic, no appointment is necessary. Our clinic is located at 607 S. Main Street, Unit E in King, NC. For any questions or to let us know you are coming, call (336) 983-9111, or use our online form.
