A patient is receiving ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn) via a piggyback method. What is the route of administration for this medication?

The correct answer is based on the method of administering ampicillin-sulbactam (Unasyn) via the piggyback method. This method involves attaching a secondary IV bag to an existing IV line, allowing for the delivery of medications directly into the bloodstream. This indicates that the medication is being administered intravenously.

When a medication is given intravenously, it provides immediate access to the systemic circulation, which is beneficial for drugs that require rapid action or are not effectively absorbed when taken orally. In the case of Unasyn, the piggyback method means that it is delivered into a larger volume of fluids already being administered, ensuring that the drug is diluted and administered safely.

Other routes of administration, such as oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular, do not involve the direct infusion into a vein as seen with the piggyback method. Therefore, the administration of ampicillin-sulbactam via a piggyback indicates that the appropriate route is intravenous injection.