Learning outcome 1: Understand the indications and preparations used for the topical route

Mercy is prescribed fucidin cream for the small infected area behind her ear. Why might a topical antibiotic cream have been prescribed for her?

ACTIVITY

The topical route permits local rather than systemic absorption of the medicine and

reduces its side-effects on the body generally. In Mercy’s case it would have been

considered appropriate as the lesion is small and superficial.