Following major jaw surgery, limited jaw mobility or the presence of arch bars and elastics makes swallowing solid pills nearly impossible. Medication compliance is paramount for a smooth recovery, especially for infection prevention and pain control. Converting solid medications into a liquid form ensures the proper dose is consumed. Successfully managing this challenge directly influences the overall healing process.
Preparing Medications for Easy Swallowing
Liquid suspensions are the preferred option for easy delivery through a small opening. Patients should ask their surgeon or pharmacist if liquid forms of prescribed medications are available before the procedure. This ensures dosing accuracy and eliminates the work involved in altering solid pills.
If a liquid version is unavailable, the tablet may need to be crushed or the capsule opened. Consult with the prescribing physician or a pharmacist before altering any pill, as many medications are designed to release slowly. Crushing extended-release, sustained-release, or enteric-coated tablets can cause “dose-dumping,” where the entire dose is absorbed immediately, potentially causing toxicity or severe side effects.
For tablets approved for crushing, use a pill crusher to achieve a very fine, uniform powder. Mix this powder with a small volume of liquid (10 to 15 milliliters) to create a slurry. Alternatively, mix the crushed medication into a small spoonful of soft, pureed food like applesauce or yogurt to mask the taste.
Safe Administration Techniques
Once the medication is prepared as a liquid or fine slurry, administer it slowly and carefully to prevent aspiration or choking. The most effective tool is a large-volume oral syringe (10 to 20 milliliter size) for controlled administration. Push the plunger gently to release a small amount of liquid, allowing the patient to manage the fluid.
The patient must be seated upright or in a high-backed recliner with their head slightly elevated during administration. This vertical positioning helps gravity assist the swallowing reflex and reduces the chance of liquid entering the airway. Place the tip of the syringe between the cheek and the gums, or insert it through any gaps in the dental splint or wiring.
Aim the syringe tip toward the back of the cheek, rather than directly at the throat, to minimize the gag reflex. The patient should swallow each small amount before the next is delivered, making the process slow and deliberate. After the dose is administered, immediately rinse the mouth with water or a prescribed mouthwash to clear any residue.
Essential Medication Regimen and Timing
Maintaining a strict schedule for post-operative medications is important, particularly for antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infection and must be taken exactly as directed until the entire course is finished. Stopping an antibiotic course prematurely can lead to a recurrence of infection or contribute to the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Pain medication timing requires a proactive approach, rather than waiting for the pain to become severe. Pain relievers, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen, should be taken on a consistent, scheduled basis to maintain a steady level in the bloodstream. Scheduling pain medication before mandatory activities, such as oral hygiene routines or short walks, can improve comfort and compliance.
Stronger narcotic pain relievers often cause undesirable side effects, such as nausea and constipation, compounded by a liquid-only diet. Taking narcotic medications with a small amount of soft food can help mitigate stomach upset. Maintaining adequate fluid intake is important for constipation; the surgeon may recommend an over-the-counter stool softener. Adverse reactions should be communicated immediately to the surgeon.