Certified Medication Aide Practice

When a medication is advised to be applied "top," what does "top" indicate?

1. ointment

2. topical (on the skin)

3. sublingual (under the tongue)

4. times

The correct answer is: topical (on the skin)

When a medication is advised to be applied "top," "top" indicates that the medication should be applied topically on the skin. Topical medications are designed to be applied to a specific area of the body, usually the skin, where they can directly exert their effects. This route of administration allows the medication to be absorbed through the skin and reach the systemic circulation. Topical medications can come in various forms such as gels, creams, lotions, and patches. The other options are incorrect because: A. Ointment refers to a specific type of topical preparation, but it does not encompass all topical medications. C. Sublingual administration involves placing medication under the tongue, not on the skin. D. "Times" does not relate to the route of administration of the medication, making it an irrelevant option.