Why is it important to wear gloves when assisting with topical medications?

Wearing gloves when assisting with topical medications is crucial primarily because of the potential for unintended absorption of the medication through the skin. Many topical medications contain active ingredients that can be potent and may lead to adverse effects if absorbed by someone other than the intended patient. By using gloves, the caregiver protects themselves from inadvertently transferring the medication onto their skin, thereby avoiding possible systemic effects or reactions.

In addition, the use of gloves also serves other important purposes. For instance, they help in maintaining cleanliness and preventing contamination of the medication, thus ensuring that the treatment remains safe and effective. However, the primary concern that emphasizes the need for gloves revolves around the risk of skin absorption and personal safety, making it a fundamental practice in medication administration.