National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

Which of the following terms refers to a medication taken by mouth?

1. Rectal

2. Intravenous

3. Oral

4. Inhalation

The correct answer is: Oral

The term "oral" specifically refers to medications that are administered through the mouth. This route of administration allows for medications to be swallowed and absorbed through the digestive system, making it a common and convenient method for delivering drugs to patients. Oral medications are often available in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, or liquid solutions, and they are designed to dissolve in the gastrointestinal tract, where they enter the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Understanding the term "oral" is essential for identifying how medications are delivered, especially in contrast to other routes. For instance, rectal refers to medication administered via the rectum, which is a different method of delivery typically used for patients who may have difficulty swallowing or when rapid absorption is needed. Intravenous indicates that the medication is given directly into the bloodstream through a vein, allowing for immediate effects and high bioavailability. Inhalation refers to medications delivered through the respiratory system (e.g., asthma inhalers), targeting the lungs directly and enabling quick absorption into the bloodstream. Each of these routes has specific applications and is chosen based on the patient’s condition and the desired effect of the medication.