What is the primary characteristic of an ampule?

An ampule is a sealed container that typically holds a single, sterile dose of medication. The primary characteristic that distinguishes ampules is their design, which often includes a prescored neck. This prescored area allows for easier opening, ensuring that healthcare professionals can safely break the neck of the ampule to access the medication inside without the risk of glass fragments contaminating the solution.

While some aspects of the other options may apply in different contexts, they do not accurately describe the essential attribute of an ampule. For example, ampules are generally intended for single use and cannot typically be reused. They can contain various forms of medication, but they are not solely limited to powders. Understanding the specific features of an ampule is crucial for effective and safe medication administration.