For an infant with thrush, how should oral nystatin suspension be administered?

For an infant with thrush, administering oral nystatin suspension directly onto the mucous membranes with a gloved finger is the preferred method because it allows for thorough application of the medication where it is most needed. The thrush, characterized by white patches in the mouth caused by Candida infection, requires direct contact with the antifungal agent to effectively combat the infection.

Using a gloved finger provides the benefit of ensuring that the medication adheres well to the mucous membranes, increasing the likelihood that it will come into contact with the affected areas. This method is gentle and allows the caregiver to make sure the medication is evenly distributed in the mouth.

Other methods of administration may not achieve the same level of effectiveness. For instance, using a cotton-tipped applicator might not deliver an adequate amount of medication or could cause discomfort. Mixing the nystatin suspension with formula could lead to reduced efficacy, as the medication may not reach the areas affected by thrush effectively. Administering the medication with a syringe without a needle can be effective if directed correctly but may not allow for the same level of interactive application as using a finger. Therefore, using a gloved finger is recognized as the most effective technique for treating thrush in infants.