Which of the following is not a common type of parenteral route?

The parenteral route refers to the administration of medications or fluids bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, typically involving injections. The most common types of parenteral routes include intravenous, subcutaneous, and intramuscular methods, each serving distinct purposes and utilizing different injection sites.

Intravenous administration involves delivering substances directly into a vein, allowing for rapid onset of action and precise control over dosage. Subcutaneous injections are administered into the fatty tissue layer beneath the skin, providing a slower absorption rate. Intramuscular injections involve delivering medication deep into a muscle, which allows for a faster absorption compared to subcutaneous injections.

In contrast, the rectal route is classified as enteral rather than parenteral. It involves the installation of medication via the rectum, which is associated with the gastrointestinal system and is typically used for patients who may not be able to ingest medications orally due to nausea, vomiting, or other conditions. Therefore, identifying rectal administration as not a common type of parenteral route is accurate, as it does not fit the definition that involves bypassing the digestive system through injection methods.