Sublingual Medication Administration

The sublingual route for medication administration is extremely effective in administering a drug for immediate absorption and systemic distribution. The main medication administered through the sublingual route is Nitroglycerine. There are other medications that can be given SL however, none of them are in the EMT scope of practice.

To administer a sublingual medication:

1. 1. Determine indication for Nitroglycerine administration (Pain associated with suspected ACS)
   2. Administration is the same for tablet and spray forms
      • If using spray, prime the sprayer once into a trashcan to ensure the full dose is administered with the first spray into the patient
   3. Final confirmation of medication “rights”
      • Right medication, dose, route, patient condition and timing.
   4. Instruct the patient to open their mouth and raise their tongue to the roof of their mouth
   5. Place one pill or spray 1 spray under the tongue and instruct the patient to close their mouth
      • If using pill form, further instruct the patient to allow the pill to fully dissolve
   6. Document the time, medication and dose given.