Metric Abbreviations

Question 1

cc

Answer 1

Cubic centimeter
This is a measure of volume usually reserved for measuring gases. However, you may still find it used as a liquid measure. One cubic centimeter is approximately equal to 16 drops from a medicine dropper. Do not use substitute mL

Question 2

g, gm, Gm

Answer 2

Gram

This is a solid measure of weight. 1 g is approximately equal to the weight two paperclips.

Question 3

kg, Kg

Answer 3

Kilogram

This is a weight measure. 1 kg equals 2.2 pounds.

Question 4

L

Answer 4

Liter

This is a liquid measure. One liter is a little more than 1 quart.

Question 5

mcg

Answer 5

Microgram

This is a measure of the weight. 1000 mcg make up 1 mg. Do not use µg.

Question 6

mEq

Answer 6

Milliequivalent

No equivalent necessary. Drugs are prepared in order in this weight measure.

Question 7

mg

Answer 7

Milligram

This is a measure of weight. 1000 mg make up 1 g

Question 8

mL, ml

Answer 8

Milliliter

This is a liquid measure the terms cubic centimeter and milliliter are interchangeable in dosage. 1cc=1mL

Question 9

Unit

Answer 9

Unit

This is a measure of biologic activity. Nurses do not calculate this measure. For example penicillin potassium 300,000 units