Why should you wear gloves when applying topical medication to a patient?

Wearing gloves when applying topical medication is important primarily to prevent the healthcare provider from absorbing the medication. Many topical medications contain active ingredients that can be absorbed through the skin, which could pose a risk to the provider’s health if unintended exposure occurs.

By using gloves, the provider acts as a barrier to safeguard themselves from the potential systemic effects of the medication. This practice is a fundamental principle in medication administration to ensure the safety of both the patient and the healthcare provider.

While keeping the area clean, preventing contamination, and ensuring better adhesion are important aspects of medication administration, the primary reason in this context revolves around the provider's safety from absorbing the medication.