HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What characterizes parenteral administration?

1. intake through food

2. not through the alimentary canal

3. direct injection into the bloodstream

4. oral ingestion of medication

The correct answer is: not through the alimentary canal

Parenteral administration is characterized by the delivery of substances, such as medications, in a manner that bypasses the alimentary canal. This means that parenteral routes do not involve the gastrointestinal tract, which includes pathways such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Instead, parenteral administration typically involves methods such as injections, where substances can be directly introduced into the bloodstream or other tissues, allowing for quicker absorption and onset of action compared to oral intake. The focus on bypassing the gastrointestinal system is significant for various medical scenarios, as it ensures that the medication is not subjected to degradation by digestive enzymes or the first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can occur with orally ingested substances. This method of administration is essential in situations where rapid effects are needed or in cases where a patient cannot take medications orally.