North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

When you see "SQ" in a medication order, what route of administration does it refer to?

1. Intravenous

2. Intramuscular

3. Subcutaneous

4. Oral

The correct answer is: Subcutaneous

The designation "SQ" in a medication order stands for "subcutaneous," which refers to the route of administration where medication is injected into the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle. This method is commonly used for medications that need to be absorbed slowly over time, such as insulin or heparin. Subcutaneous administration is characterized by its location; the injection is given in areas such as the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, where there is a layer of fat under the skin. This route is advantageous for certain medications that require gradual absorption or when intravenous access is not available. In contrast, other routes such as intravenous (IV) involve direct injection into the bloodstream, leading to immediate effects, while intramuscular (IM) injections target muscle tissue for faster absorption than subcutaneous but still require specific techniques and sites for administration. Oral administration involves giving medication via the mouth and relies on absorption through the gastrointestinal tract, which is different from the localized effect sought with subcutaneous injections. Thus, recognizing the appropriate route of administration is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the medication being given.