20. Select the meaning of the underlined word in this sentence. The medication must *adhere* to the patient's skin to be effective.
Answer: A
Stick
The word *adhere* in the context of the sentence means to stick or attach firmly to the patient's skin in order for the medication to be effective.
A) Stick
This option is correct because *adhere* specifically refers to the action of sticking or attaching to a surface. In the context of medication, it implies the necessity for the medication to remain in contact with the skin for optimal effectiveness.
B) Absorb
This option is incorrect as *absorb* means to take in or soak up a substance. While absorption may be a part of the medication's action after it adheres, it does not capture the essential meaning of *adhere* as sticking to the skin.
C) Adjust
This option is also incorrect. To *adjust* means to alter or modify something. This does not correlate with the meaning of *adhere*, which involves a physical attachment rather than a change or modification.
D) Match
This option is incorrect as well. *Match* refers to being similar or equal to something. It does not relate to the concept of sticking or adhering, which is crucial in the context of how the medication interacts with the skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct answer is A) Stick, as it accurately reflects the meaning of *adhere* in the sentence. The other options fail to convey the essential action of sticking or attaching, which is vital for the medication's effectiveness on the patient's skin.