Which routes are appropriate for morphine administration?

• A. IV and IM only
• B. PO only
• C. IV, IM, PO, and SQ
• D. SQ only

Answer: (C)

Morphine can be given through several routes because the choice depends on how quickly relief is needed and the patient’s situation. Intravenous morphine acts fastest, which is ideal for acute pain or emergencies. If IV access isn’t available right away, intramuscular administration is a reliable alternative with a rapid but slightly slower onset than IV. Subcutaneous morphine provides another parenteral option with a gradual onset and useful duration. Oral morphine is also used, especially for longer-term or non-acute pain, but it has lower and more variable bioavailability because of first-pass metabolism and a slower onset. All these routes are appropriate in different contexts, so including IV, IM, PO, and SQ covers the practical options for morphine administration. Always tailor the route to the clinical situation and monitor for respiratory depression and other adverse effects.