Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

How should medications administered via a G-tube be prepared?

1. In solid form

2. As whole pills

3. In liquid form

4. As syrup

The correct answer is: In liquid form

When preparing medications to be administered via a G-tube (gastrostomy tube), it is essential that the medications are in liquid form. This form ensures that the medication can flow easily through the tube without causing blockages. Liquid medications are formulated to be easily absorbed by the body, and they also enhance the efficiency of delivery compared to solid forms. Medications in solid form, such as tablets or capsules, can pose a risk of clogging the G-tube. Whole pills should never be administered through a G-tube, as they are not designed to be broken down in the tube system, leading to potential obstruction. Syrup, although a form of liquid medication, may not always be appropriate or effective for all types of medications, as it can be more viscous and may still cause potential issues with the tube depending on the medication's specific viscosity and formulation. In contrast, liquid form medications are specifically prepared to ensure safe and effective administration via enteral feeding tubes, making it the preferred method when delivering medications through a G-tube.