Indiana Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA) State Practice Exam

Which method would be appropriate for delivering a topical medication?

1. Rubbing it into the skin

2. Injecting it directly

3. Swallowing it

4. Inserting it into an orifice

The correct answer is: Rubbing it into the skin

Rubbing the medication into the skin is the appropriate method for delivering a topical medication. Topical medications are specifically designed to be applied directly onto the skin's surface to achieve a localized effect. By rubbing the medication into the skin, the active ingredients can penetrate the outer layer and exert their therapeutic effects at the targeted area, which is essential for conditions like skin infections, rashes, or localized pain. The other methods listed are not suitable for topical medications. Injecting directly is a method for systemic delivery rather than localized treatment. Swallowing the medication implies an oral route, which is not applicable for topical agents. Inserting medication into an orifice suggests a different delivery route entirely, such as rectal or vaginal administration, which is not how topical medications are intended to be used.