What does "topical application" refer to in medication administration?

Topical application refers specifically to the administration of medication directly onto the skin or mucous membranes. This method is commonly used for treating localized conditions such as rashes, infections, or inflammation, as it allows the medication to work precisely where it is needed without systemic absorption into the bloodstream.

In the context of medication administration, topical medications can come in various forms including creams, ointments, gels, and patches, each designed to deliver therapeutic agents directly at the site of application. Other methods of medication administration, such as oral ingestion or injections, involve different routes and mechanisms of delivery that are not classified as topical.