In medical terms, what does the term "Bolus" refer to?

The term "Bolus" in medical terminology refers specifically to a single, large dose of medication that is administered rapidly, often intravenously. This is done to quickly achieve a therapeutic effect, particularly in emergency situations or when immediate drug action is needed. Administering medication as a bolus allows for rapid distribution throughout the body, making it effective for urgent treatments, such as in cases of severe pain or acute medical conditions.

The other choices refer to different methods of administering medication. A slow infusion of medication involves delivering a drug gradually over a period of time rather than all at once. A medication taken orally is one that is ingested and absorbed through the digestive system, which takes longer to take effect compared to a bolus. A method of drug delivery over time typically describes continuous infusion or sustained-release formulations, neither of which aligns with the rapid administration characteristic of a bolus. Understanding the specific nature of a bolus is essential for recognizing how quickly intervention can occur in clinical settings.