What does the abbreviation SL stand for in medication administration?

The abbreviation SL stands for sublingual, which refers to a method of medication administration where a drug is placed under the tongue. This allows for rapid absorption into the bloodstream through the tissue under the tongue, bypassing the digestive system for quicker effects. Sublingual medications often include certain pain relievers, heart medications, and anti-anxiety drugs, which are designed for quick onset of action.

In contrast, subcutaneous refers to a route where medication is injected into the tissue layer between the skin and muscle. The term for taking medication by mouth is commonly abbreviated as PO (per os), and per rectum indicates administration via the rectum. Each of these methods has distinct uses and mechanisms, making it important for medication aides to understand these differences in order to correctly follow medication administration protocols.