What is necessary for the preparation of skin before administering a bolus?

Preparing the skin before administering a bolus is essential to minimize the risk of infection and ensure patient safety. An alcohol swab is commonly used for this purpose because alcohol is an effective antiseptic that helps to cleanse the skin and reduce the presence of bacteria. By applying an alcohol swab to the area where the bolus will be administered, you create a sterile environment that helps prevent contamination and potential complications from the procedure.

While some other options may have their uses in different contexts—like antibacterial ointment, which is generally applied to wounds and not used for cleansing before procedures—alcohol swabs are specifically designed to quickly disinfect the skin. Betadine, which is an antiseptic solution containing iodine, is often used in surgical settings but is not as practical for quick swabbing. Detergent wipes are not suitable for this purpose either, as they do not possess the necessary antimicrobial properties required for effective skin preparation in a clinical setting. Thus, using an alcohol swab is the most appropriate and effective method for preparing the skin before administering a bolus.