What does the term "oral (PO)" signify?

The term "oral (PO)" signifies that a medication is swallowed or delivered through a tube to the stomach. This route is commonly used for various forms of medication, including tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations. The oral route is favored for its ease of administration and convenience, allowing patients to take medications in a non-invasive manner. It also allows for a systemic effect as the medication is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.

In contrast, the other options refer to different routes of administration. Inhalation through a nebulizer involves delivering medication directly to the lungs, which is not relevant to the oral route. Administering medications through injection refers to parenteral routes, such as intravenous or intramuscular, bypassing the gastrointestinal system altogether. Applying medication directly onto the skin describes a topical route, which is also distinct from oral administration. Thus, option C accurately reflects the definition and implications of the oral administration route.