Vaginal Medication Administration
Key Points
- Vaginal medications are inserted into the vaginal canal for local treatment and selected procedural preparation.
- Privacy, clear explanation, and comfort-focused positioning are essential before administration.
- Correct insertion direction is toward the small of the back, followed by brief post-procedure rest.
Equipment
- Ordered vaginal medication (with applicator when provided)
- Gloves and lubricant if indicated
- MAR/order verification access
- Privacy materials and patient hygiene supplies
Procedure Steps
- Verify patient identity, medication order, dose, and vaginal route.
- Ensure privacy and explain procedure to reduce anxiety.
- Perform hand hygiene and gather required supplies.
- Position patient comfortably (supine with knees bent, standing with one foot elevated, or left lateral).
- Don gloves and prepare medication per order and manufacturer instructions.
- If applicator is provided, draw medication into applicator barrel.
- Gently insert applicator or gloved fingers into vaginal canal, aiming toward the small of the back.
- Deposit medication, then withdraw applicator/fingers slowly and gently.
- Instruct patient to remain lying down for a few minutes to support distribution.
- Document medication, dose, route, and patient response.
Common Errors
- Inadequate privacy/explanation → distress and reduced cooperation.
- Incorrect insertion direction → discomfort and suboptimal deposition.
- Rapid withdrawal or rough technique → tissue irritation risk.
- Skipping post-administration rest guidance → reduced medication distribution.
Related
- otic-medication-administration - Shared route-specific teaching and comfort-focused administration steps.
- oral-medication-administration-safety - Medication-rights verification and documentation principles apply across routes.