What type of medication administration requires a sterile applicator to avoid contamination?

Topical medication administration involves applying medication directly to the skin or mucous membranes. To ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the medication, as well as to prevent potential contamination, a sterile applicator is necessary. Using a sterile applicator helps to eliminate the risk of introducing bacteria or other pathogens that could interfere with the healing process or lead to infections.

In contrast, transdermal administration typically involves patches that deliver medication through the skin and do not require manual application with a potentially contaminated surface. Inhalation medications are delivered through the respiratory system, often using devices like inhalers or nebulizers, where contamination is less of a concern at the point of administration. Oral medications, taken by mouth, do not involve an applicator and follow different protocols for safe administration.

Thus, using a sterile applicator is crucial in topical medication application to maintain a clean, uncontaminated environment for the medication to work effectively.