What type of error involves administering a medication through the wrong method?

The correct answer is associated with administering a medication through the wrong method, which refers to a route error. Medications can be delivered via various routes, such as orally, intravenously, intramuscularly, or topically, each requiring a specific method of administration. When a medication intended for one route is given through another—like giving an intravenous medication orally—it can lead to ineffective treatment or potentially harmful consequences.

Understanding the correct route is crucial for ensuring the medication's efficacy and the patient's safety, as different routes can influence how the drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. Errors in this area are particularly significant because they can alter the expected pharmacological response and present serious risks to the patient.