What does "enteral medication" refer to?

Enteral medication specifically refers to medications that are administered directly into the gastrointestinal tract. This can include oral tablets, capsules, or liquids that are ingested, as well as medications delivered through feeding tubes (like nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes). The key characteristic of enteral medication is that the delivery route involves the digestive system, facilitating absorption through the stomach and intestines.

This mode of medication administration allows for the medication to be absorbed into the bloodstream via the digestive process, making it essential for many therapies, especially when patients may not be able to take medications by mouth. Understanding enteral medication is crucial for medication aides, as it directly impacts how and when certain medications should be delivered, emphasizing the importance of the gastrointestinal tract in medication management.