oral administration of medication, the administration of a tablet, a capsule, an elixir, or a solution or other liquid form of medication by mouth. An adequate amount of water should be given to lubricate or dissolve the solid medications or to dilute the liquid forms for swallowing. Preparations with a disagreeable taste may be given with something of sufficient flavor to disguise the bad taste. Substances that are harmful to the teeth are given through a straw. People who have difficulty swallowing pills or capsules may find it easier to swallow the medication if they look up as they swallow. Looking up while swallowing opens the esophagus. With patients who have difficulty swallowing, the oral cavity is always checked for pocketing the medication. Research shows that sitting up for 15 to 30 minutes after oral medications promotes dissolution of the medication and decreases gastric irritation. Kinds include buccal administration of medication, sublingual administration of a medication.
