Petrolatum is classified as which type of ointment base?

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Multiple Choice

Petrolatum is classified as which type of ointment base?

Explanation:
The main idea is that petrolatum is an oil-based, non-aqueous ointment base. It is hydrophobic, meaning it does not mix with water, and it forms an occlusive film on the skin that reduces water loss. Because of its purely oleaginous nature, it does not dissolve in water, does not absorb water to form emulsions, and is not a water-washable or water-soluble base. These characteristics place petrolatum squarely in the oleaginous category of ointment bases.

The main idea is that petrolatum is an oil-based, non-aqueous ointment base. It is hydrophobic, meaning it does not mix with water, and it forms an occlusive film on the skin that reduces water loss. Because of its purely oleaginous nature, it does not dissolve in water, does not absorb water to form emulsions, and is not a water-washable or water-soluble base. These characteristics place petrolatum squarely in the oleaginous category of ointment bases.

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