A client has been prescribed buccal administration of nicotine to aid in smoking cessation. What should the nurse tell the client regarding buccal administration of nicotine?

Question

A) Ask the client not to chew the nicotine buccal medication.
B) Ask the client to place the medication between the tongue and palate.
C) Tell the client buccal medications are designed to be absorbed when swallowed.
D) Tell the client buccal medications are available only in gel form.

Answer 1

A
Feedback:
The nurse should ask the client not to chew the nicotine buccal medication, because chewing or swallowing speeds up the rate of absorption. Buccal administration involves placing the medication between the client's cheek and gum until it dissolves. Buccal medications are designed to be absorbed via the mucous membrane of the cheek—not when swallowed with saliva. Buccal medications are usually available in the form of either gel or substances such as gum.