What does the term "parenteral" refer to regarding medication administration?

The term "parenteral" refers to a method of delivering medication that bypasses the gastrointestinal tract. This includes any route of administration that involves injections (such as intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous) and inhalation, allowing the medication to enter directly into the bloodstream or tissues. The advantage of parenteral administration is that it provides rapid absorption and onset of action, which is critical in emergency medical situations. While the terms for oral intake, topical application, and intravenous feeding describe other methods of medication or nutrient delivery, they do not encompass the broader definition of parenteral administration, which explicitly includes injections and inhalation. Thus, the chosen answer accurately captures the meaning of "parenteral" in the context of medication administration.