Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

How are irrigation solutions administered?

1. Through a filter needle

2. Through a special administration set

3. Orally

4. By pouring from the bottle

The correct answer is: By pouring from the bottle

Irrigation solutions are typically administered by pouring directly from the bottle. This method allows for a controlled application of the solution directly to the area that requires irrigation, such as wounds or body cavities, ensuring that the solution can flow freely and effectively cleanse the area. While other routes of administration may seem plausible, they do not apply to the delivery of irrigation solutions in the same context. For example, filter needles are used primarily for drawing liquid from vials and injecting it into patients, which is not suitable for irrigation purposes. A special administration set might be used for intravenous fluids, but that does not align with the typical administration of irrigation solutions. Oral administration is not appropriate for irrigation solutions, as they are intended for external use and are not meant to be ingested. Pouring from the bottle directly maintains cleanliness and ensures that the full amount of solution is available for the intended use, which is critical for effective irrigation.