What is administered to patients for hydration or as a vehicle for delivering medication?

IV solutions are essential for patient care, primarily used for hydration and as vehicles for delivering medications. They are sterile liquids administered directly into a vein, allowing for rapid absorption of fluids and drugs into the bloodstream. This method is particularly important in clinical settings where patients may be unable to take oral medications due to conditions like vomiting, surgery, or critical illness.

Hydration is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in patients, especially when they are deprived of oral intake or have increased fluid losses. Additionally, IV solutions can be formulated with specific electrolytes or nutrients to address particular medical needs, such as in cases of electrolyte imbalances or nutritional support.

Moreover, when delivering medications intravenously, healthcare providers can ensure precise dosing and immediate action, which is vital in emergencies or for medications that require careful titration.

The other choices refer to different medical practices or classes of drugs and do not serve the primary purpose of hydration or serving as a delivery method for medications in the same way that IV solutions do.