Module 3 Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of sig codes?
To ensure that patients can understand their medication instructions and to standardize communication in prescriptions.
What are sig codes?
Shorthand instructions used in prescriptions, primarily derived from Latin, to communicate medication instructions clearly.
What is the required format for writing a sig?
Verb + Quantity + Dosage Form + Route of Administration + Time + Special Instructions.
Provide an example of a sig.
“Take one tablet by mouth twice daily.”
What does the “verb” in a sig represent?
The action to be taken, such as “take” or “give.”
How should the quantity be expressed in a sig?
Use “1 or 2 tablet(s)” to indicate both singular and plural forms.
What is the significance of the dosage form in a sig?
It specifies the form of medication, such as tablet, capsule, or liquid.
How should the route of administration be mentioned in a sig?
Only mention it once per sig (e.g., “by mouth”).
What are the instructions for writing sigs for children?
Use “Take” for children over 12 and adults; use “Give” for children 11 and under.
What special considerations are there for writing sigs for antibiotics?
For mixed antibiotic liquids: “Take XmL by mouth three times a day for 7 days - then discard remainder.”
For exact amounts: “Take XmL by mouth three times a day for 7 days until finished.”
Why is it important to read sigs aloud?
To verify clarity and ensure that the instructions make sense.
What are some key tasks pharmacy assistants should complete to reinforce learning?
Complete assigned readings and self-check all assignments related to sig codes.
What is the purpose of prescription transcription?
To assist pharmacy staff in accurately interpreting and transcribing prescriptions, ensuring patient safety and effective communication.
Name the verb used for oral medication in adults.
Take
What verb is used for administering oral medication to children and pets under 12?
Give
Which verb indicates the application of topical medications?
Apply
What verb is used for rectal or vaginal medications?
Unwrap and Insert
What verb is used for otic (ear) or ophthalmic (eye) drops?
Instill
Which verb indicates the method of parenteral (injection) administration?
Inject
What verb is used for sublingual or buccal medications?
Dissolve
What does “Swish and Spit” refer to in medication administration?
Oral mouthwash
What verb is used for chewable tablets?
Spray / Inhale
What are Latin abbreviations used for in prescriptions?
They are shorthand used in prescription directions (SIG) that must be translated into English.
Why is context important when interpreting Latin abbreviations?
Some abbreviations have multiple meanings, and context helps determine the correct interpretation.
What does “aa” stand for in Latin abbreviations?
Equal parts of each
What does “aaa” mean?
Apply to affected area(s)
What does “ac” indicate?
Before meals
What does “bid” mean?
Twice daily
What does “hs” stand for?
At bedtime
What does “NPO” mean?
Nothing by mouth
What does “prn” indicate?
As needed
What does “qd” mean?
Once daily
What does “tid” stand for?
Three times daily
What challenges do pharmacy staff face when interpreting abbreviations?
Some abbreviations have multiple meanings, and combinations of abbreviations can lead to misinterpretation.
What are common time indicators in prescriptions?
hr (hour), d (day), wk (week), mo (month)
What are common quantity indicators?
Numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.) and units (g, mg, mL).
What does “ADR” stand for?
Adverse drug reaction
What does “NKA” mean?
No known allergies
What does “DAW” indicate?
Dispense as written
Provide examples of drugs written in shorthand.
ASA (aspirin), 5-FU (fluorouracil), AZT (zidovudine).
What does “IM” stand for in Latin abbreviations?
Intramuscularly
What does “IV” indicate?
Intravenously
What does “IVP” mean?
Intravenous push
What does “IVPB” stand for?
Intravenous piggyback
What does “liq” refer to?
Liquid
What does “lot” mean?
Lotion
What does “MDI” stand for?
Metered dose inhaler
What does “N/V” indicate?
Nausea and vomiting
What does “q” mean in prescription terms?
Each, every
What does “qam” stand for?
Every morning
What does “qid” mean?
Four times daily
What does “qod” indicate?
Every other day
What does “qs” mean?
Sufficient quantity
What does “s” stand for?
Without
What does “SL” refer to?
Sublingual (under the tongue)
What does “SOB” mean?
Shortness of breath
What does “supp” stand for?
Suppository
What does “susp” mean?
Suspension
What does “syr” refer to?
Syrup
What does “tab” stand for?
Tablet
What does “tsp” mean?
Teaspoonful
What does “tbsp” indicate?
Tablespoonful
What does “tuss” refer to?
Cough
What does “uf” mean?
Until finished
What does “ung” stand for?
Ointment
What does “ud” mean?
As directed
What is the significance of understanding shorthand for specific drugs in pharmacy practice?
It ensures accurate dispensing and effective communication with healthcare providers.
What should pharmacy staff avoid when interpreting combinations of abbreviations?
Using the word “and” unless certain of its correctness, as it can imply more frequent use of medication.
What does “gtt/gtts” stand for?
Drop(s)
What does “pc” mean in prescription terms?
After meals or food
What does “pr” indicate?
Rectally
What does “pm” stand for?
Evening
What does “q2h” mean?
Every 2 hours
What does “q3h” indicate?
Every 3 hours
What does “q4h” mean?
Every 4 hours
What does “q6h” indicate?
Every 6 hours
What does “q8h” mean?
Every 8 hours
What does “q12h” indicate?
Every 12 hours
What does “1/7” mean?
1 day
What does “10/7” indicate?
10 days
What does “1/52” mean?
1 week (7 days)
What does “1/12” indicate?
1 month (always 30 days)
What does “x 5d” mean?
For 5 days
What does “mEq” stand for?
Milliequivalent
What does “mcg” refer to?
Microgram
What does “u or U” mean?
Unit
What does “gr” stand for?
Grain
What does “IU” indicate?
International units
What does “mL” refer to?
Milliliter
What is the importance of careful interpretation of Latin abbreviations in pharmacy practice?
To avoid miscommunication and ensure patient safety.
What should pharmacy staff do when faced with combinations of abbreviations?
Interpret carefully to avoid misinterpretation.
What does “DAW” signify in prescriptions?
Dispense as written, indicating no substitutions.
What does “NKA” mean?
No known allergies.
What does “NKDA” stand for?
No known drug allergies.
What does “Tx” refer to?
Treatment
What does “Dx” mean?
Diagnosis
What does “SOB” stand for in medical terms?
Shortness of breath.
What does “elix” refer to?
Elixir
What does “nebs” mean?
Nebules
What does “stat” indicate?
At once or immediately.
Common Latin Abbreviations:
“bid”: Twice daily.
“tid”: Three times daily.
“prn”: As needed.
“ac”: Before meals.
“hs”: At bedtime.
“NPO”: Nothing by mouth.
Routes of Administration:
Oral: “Take” for adults, “Give” for pets/children.
Topical: “Apply” for creams, lotions, etc.
Rectal/Vaginal: “Unwrap and Insert.”
Otic/Ophthalmic: “Instill” for ear/eye drops.
Parenteral: “Inject” for injections.
Inhalation: “Inhale” for inhalers and capsules.
Interpretation Challenges:
Some abbreviations have multiple meanings (e.g., “od” can mean “once daily” or “right eye”).
Context is crucial for accurate interpretation.
Avoid ambiguous terms like “and” unless certain of the meaning.
Quantities and Units:
Familiarity with shorthand for quantities (e.g., “1,” “2,” “10,” “100”) and units (e.g., “mg,” “mL,” “g”).
Understanding terms indicating time (e.g., “hr” for hour, “d” for day).
Other Notations:
ADR: Adverse drug reaction.
NKA: No known allergies.
DAW: Dispense as written.
Shorthand for Specific Drugs:
Recognizing common shorthand (e.g., “ASA” for aspirin, “5-FU” for fluorouracil).
Importance of Accurate Transcription:
Ensures patient safety and effective medication administration.
Reduces the risk of errors in dispensing medications.
What is a prescription?
A written order from a licensed healthcare provider for a specific medication to be dispensed to a patient.
Why are prescriptions important?
They ensure that patients receive the correct medication, dosage, and instructions for safe use.
What information is included in the prescriber information section?
Name of the prescriber
Address
Town and Province
Postal Code
Phone Number
What is the purpose of the prescriber information?
It identifies the healthcare provider responsible for the prescription.
What details are included in the patient information section?
Patient’s Name
Address
Phone Number
Relevant information (e.g., weight for pediatric patients)
Why is patient information important?
It ensures the medication is prescribed for the correct individual.
What does the date on a prescription indicate?
The date on which the prescription is written, essential for tracking validity and timing.
What does the “Rx” symbol signify?
It indicates that the following information pertains to a prescription, derived from the Latin word “recipe,” meaning “take.”
What is included in the inscription section of a prescription?
Medication prescribed (e.g., Amoxil 500mg)
Strength and form (e.g., 1 cap PO q8h uf)
What is the purpose of the inscription?
It specifies the exact medication and dosage for the patient.
Give an example of a signa instruction.
“1 cap PO q8h uf” means taking one capsule by mouth every 8 hours as needed.
What does the signa section provide?
Directions for the patient on how to take the medication (commonly called the sig).
What is included in the subscription section?
Instructions to the pharmacist on how to dispense the medication (e.g., M: 21 capsules).
What is the purpose of the subscription?
It guides the pharmacist in preparing the medication for the patient.
Why is the prescriber’s signature required on a prescription?
It confirms that the prescriber has authorized the medication and its instructions, making the prescription valid.
What information is provided regarding refills and intervals?
Number of refills allowed (Repeat ____ Times)
Intervals for medication (_____ Days Apart)
What is the significance of refills and intervals in a prescription?
They provide guidelines for how often the patient can obtain refills and the schedule for taking the medication.
What are the key sections of a prescription?
1- Prescriber Information
2 - Patient Information
3 - Date
4 - Rx (Superscription)
5 - Inscription
6 - Signa
7 - Subscription
8 - Signature
9 - Refills and Intervals
What is the role of the prescriber in the prescription process?
The prescriber is responsible for evaluating the patient’s condition, determining the appropriate medication, and providing clear instructions for its use.
How does including a patient’s weight enhance safety in prescriptions?
It allows for accurate dosage calculations, especially in pediatric patients, minimizing the risk of underdosing or overdosing.
What does “PO” stand for in prescription instructions?
“PO” stands for “per os,” which means “by mouth.”
What does “q8h” indicate in a prescription?
“q8h” means “every 8 hours,” indicating the frequency of medication administration.