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.
What does “uf” mean in the context of a prescription?
“uf” stands for “as needed,” indicating that the medication should be taken only when necessary.
What is the significance of the “M:” notation in the subscription section?
“M:” indicates the total amount of medication prescribed (e.g., M: 21 capsules means 21 capsules are to be dispensed).
What are the implications of a missing signature on a prescription?
A missing signature can render the prescription invalid, leading to potential legal issues, medication errors, and delays in patient care.
How does the prescription template facilitate communication between prescribers and pharmacists?
It provides clear instructions through sections like Subscription and Signa, ensuring pharmacists understand how to dispense the medication correctly.
What is the purpose of the “Do Not Repeat” section in a prescription?
It indicates that the prescription should not be refilled beyond the specified number of times or intervals.
Why is it important for prescriptions to be standardized?
Standardization helps prevent errors, ensures clarity, and promotes safe medication practices across healthcare settings.
What should be done if a prescription is unclear or incomplete?
The pharmacist should contact the prescriber for clarification before dispensing the medication to ensure patient safety.
What is the role of the pharmacist in the prescription process?
The pharmacist verifies the prescription, dispenses the medication, provides patient counseling, and ensures safe medication use.
What is the purpose of the “Inscription” section in a prescription?
It details the specific medication prescribed, including its generic or brand name, strength, and dosage form.
What information is typically included in the “Refills” section?
The number of times the prescription can be refilled and any specific instructions regarding the timing of those refills.
What does the term “Subscription” refer to in a prescription?
It refers to the instructions given to the pharmacist on how to prepare and dispense the medication.
Why is it important to include the patient’s phone number in the prescription?
It allows the pharmacist or healthcare provider to contact the patient for any clarifications or follow-up regarding the medication.
What does the “Date” section signify in a prescription?
It indicates when the prescription was written, which is crucial for determining the validity period of the prescription.
How does the prescription template enhance patient safety?
By providing a standardized format that includes all necessary information, reducing the risk of errors in medication dispensing.
What is the significance of including the prescriber’s fax number?
It allows for quick communication between the pharmacy and the prescriber, facilitating clarifications or additional information if needed.
What does “Amoxil 500mg” represent in the prescription?
It is the specific medication being prescribed, indicating the brand name (Amoxil) and its strength (500mg).
What does the abbreviation “q” stand for in prescription instructions?
“q” stands for “quaque,” which means “every” in Latin, used to indicate frequency.
What is the role of the “Signature” section in a prescription?
It confirms the prescriber’s authorization of the medication and its instructions, making the prescription legally valid.
How can the prescription template help in managing chronic conditions?
By clearly outlining medication regimens, refills, and intervals, it supports adherence to treatment plans for chronic conditions.
What should a pharmacist do if a prescription lacks necessary information?
The pharmacist should reach out to the prescriber for clarification to ensure safe and effective medication dispensing.
What is the importance of the “Patient Information” section?
It ensures that the medication is tailored to the specific needs of the patient, including any relevant medical history.
What does “uf” indicate in the context of medication instructions?
“uf” means “as needed,” indicating that the medication should be taken only when necessary.
Why is it essential to have clear directions in the “Signa” section?
Clear directions help patients understand how to take their medication correctly, which is vital for treatment effectiveness and safety.
What is the significance of the “Rx” symbol in a prescription?
The “Rx” symbol indicates that the document is a prescription, derived from the Latin word “recipe,” meaning “take.”
What information is captured in the “Prescriber Information” section?
It includes the prescriber’s name, address, phone number, and fax number, which helps identify the healthcare provider.
How does the prescription template address pediatric patients specifically?
It includes a note to obtain the child’s weight, which is crucial for calculating appropriate dosages.
What does “1 cap PO q8h uf” mean in a prescription?
It means the patient should take 1 capsule by mouth every 8 hours as needed.
Why is the “Patient Information” section important?
It ensures that the medication is appropriate for the patient and allows for personalized care based on their medical history.
What does “Repeat ____ Times” indicate in a prescription?
It specifies how many times the prescription can be refilled, guiding the patient and pharmacist on medication access.
What role does the “Signature” of the prescriber play in the prescription?
The signature validates the prescription, confirming that the prescriber has authorized the medication and its instructions.
How does the prescription template help prevent medication errors?
By providing a standardized format that includes all necessary sections, it reduces ambiguity and enhances clarity for both prescribers and pharmacists.
What is the purpose of the “Do Not Repeat” section in a prescription?
It indicates that the prescription should not be refilled beyond the specified number of times, ensuring controlled medication use.
How can the “Intervals” section impact patient adherence?
By clearly stating how often medication should be taken, it helps patients follow their treatment regimen more effectively.
What should a pharmacist do if they notice discrepancies in a prescription?
They should contact the prescriber for clarification to ensure the patient receives the correct medication and dosage.
Why is it important for the prescription to include the date it was written?
The date helps determine the validity of the prescription and ensures timely medication management.
What does “M: 21 capsules” indicate in the prescription?
It specifies the total quantity of medication to be dispensed, in this case, 21 capsules.
How does the prescription template support effective communication between healthcare providers?
It standardizes the information shared, making it easier for prescribers and pharmacists to understand and act on the prescription.
What is the importance of including the patient’s phone number in the prescription?
It allows for follow-up communication regarding the medication, ensuring the patient understands how to use it properly.
What is the primary function of the “Prescriber Information” section?
It identifies the healthcare provider, including their name, address, phone number, and fax number, ensuring clear communication.
Why is the “Patient Information” section critical in a prescription?
It captures essential details about the patient, such as name, address, and phone number, which are necessary for personalized care.
What does the “Date” on a prescription indicate?
It shows when the prescription was written, which is important for tracking the validity and timing of medication use.
What does the “Inscription” section include?
It lists the medication prescribed, including the generic or brand name, strength, and dosage form.
What is the purpose of the “Signa” section in a prescription?
It provides specific directions for the patient on how to take the medication, ensuring proper usage.
How does the “Subscription” section assist pharmacists?
It contains instructions on how to prepare and dispense the medication, guiding the pharmacist in their role.
What does the “Refills” section indicate?
It specifies how many times the prescription can be refilled, which is crucial for ongoing medication management.
Why is the prescriber’s signature essential on a prescription?
It validates the prescription, confirming that the prescriber has authorized the medication and its instructions.
What does “M: 21 capsules” signify in the prescription?
It indicates the total quantity of medication to be dispensed, in this case, 21 capsules.
How does including patient weight enhance safety in pediatric prescriptions?
It allows for accurate dosage calculations based on the child’s weight, minimizing the risk of underdosing or overdosing.
What does “1 cap PO q8h uf” mean in the context of medication instructions?
It instructs the patient to take 1 capsule by mouth every 8 hours as needed.
What is the significance of the “Do Not Repeat” section?
It indicates that the prescription should not be refilled beyond the specified number of times, ensuring controlled medication use.
How does the prescription template facilitate communication between prescribers and pharmacists?
It provides a clear and standardized format that reduces ambiguity and enhances understanding of medication instructions.
What should a pharmacist do if a prescription lacks necessary information?
They should contact the prescriber for clarification to ensure safe and effective medication dispensing.
Why is it important for the prescription to include the patient’s phone number?
It allows for follow-up communication regarding the medication, ensuring the patient understands how to use it properly.
Prescriber Information
Importance: Identifies the healthcare provider responsible for the prescription.
Details Included: Name, address, phone number, and fax number.
Patient Information
Importance: Ensures the medication is appropriate for the individual.
Details Included: Name, address, phone number, and relevant information (e.g., weight for pediatric patients).
Date
Importance: Indicates when the prescription was written, which is crucial for tracking validity.
Rx (Superscription)
Meaning: The symbol “Rx” signifies a prescription and is derived from the Latin word “recipe,” meaning “take.”
Inscription
Details Included: Lists the medication prescribed, including:
Generic or brand name
Strength
Dosage form
Signa (Directions)
Purpose: Provides clear instructions for the patient on how to take the medication.
Subscription
Purpose: Contains instructions for the pharmacist on how to dispense the medication.
Signature
Importance: The prescriber’s signature is required for the prescription’s validity, confirming authorization.
Refills and Intervals
Refills: Indicates how many times the prescription can be refilled.
Intervals: Specifies the timing for medication refills, which helps in managing patient adherence.
Pediatric Considerations
Weight: Including the patient’s weight is essential for calculating appropriate dosages for children.
Medication Instructions
Example: “1 cap PO q8h uf” means the patient should take 1 capsule by mouth every 8 hours as needed.
Communication
Facilitation: The template standardizes communication between prescribers and pharmacists, reducing the risk of errors.
Legal Implications
Missing Signature: A prescription without a signature may be considered invalid, leading to potential legal issues and medication errors.
1 TAB TID PRN
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth three times daily as needed.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“TID” = three times a day
“PRN” = as needed
1 SUPP PR QHS
Transcription: Unwrap and insert 1 suppository rectally every evening at bedtime.
Steps:
“1 SUPP” = 1 suppository
“PR” = per rectum
“QHS” = every night at bedtime
1 CAP QID CC
Transcription: Take 1 capsule by mouth four times daily with meals.
Steps:
“1 CAP” = 1 capsule
“QID” = four times a day
“CC” = with meals
2 TAB AC BID
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth twice daily before meals.
Steps:
“2 TAB” = 2 tablets
“AC” = before meals
“BID” = twice a day
1 OD UD
Transcription: Instill 1 drop into the right eye as directed by the physician.
Steps:
“1 OD” = 1 drop in the right eye
“UD” = as directed
2 GTT AU Q2H
Transcription: Instill 2 drops into each ear every 2 hours.
Steps:
“2 GTT” = 2 drops
“AU” = both ears
“Q2H” = every 2 hours
1 TSP QHS PRN COUGH
Transcription: Take 5 mLs by mouth every evening as needed for cough.
Steps:
“1 TSP” = 1 teaspoon (5 mLs)
“QHS” = every night at bedtime
“PRN COUGH” = as needed for cough
3 PO CAP Q3H X 5D
Transcription: Take 3 capsules by mouth every 3 hours for 5 days.
Steps:
“3 PO CAP” = 3 capsules by mouth
“Q3H” = every 3 hours
“X 5D” = for 5 days
1 GTT QID OS
Transcription: Instill 1 drop into the left eye four times daily.
Steps:
“1 GTT” = 1 drop
“QID” = four times a day
“OS” = into the left eye
2 STAT, 1 Q4H X 10D
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth now, then take 1 tablet every 4 hours for 10 days.
Steps:
“2 STAT” = Take 2 tablets now
“1 Q4H” = then take 1 tablet every 4 hours
“X 10D” = for 10 days
1 TAB PO HS
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth every evening at bedtime.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“PO” = by mouth
“HS” = at bedtime
1 CAP PO QAM
Transcription: Take 1 capsule by mouth every morning.
Steps:
“1 CAP” = 1 capsule
“PO” = by mouth
“QAM” = every morning
1 TAB PO TID PC
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth three times daily after meals.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“PO” = by mouth
“TID” = three times a day
“PC” = after meals
2 PUFF AM & 1 HS PRN
Transcription: Inhale 2 puffs every morning, and 1 puff in the evening as needed.
Steps:
“2 PUFF” = 2 puffs
“AM” = in the morning
“1 HS” = 1 puff at bedtime
“PRN” = as needed
2 TAB QOD
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth every other day.
Steps:
“2 TAB” = 2 tablets
“QOD” = every other day
1 TAB PO AM, 2 PM, 1 HS
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth in the morning, 2 tablets in the afternoon, and 1 tablet at bedtime.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“PO” = by mouth
“AM” = in the morning
“2 PM” = 2 tablets in the afternoon
“1 HS” = 1 tablet at bedtime
1 CAP PO Q2D X 30D
Transcription: Take 1 capsule by mouth every 2 days for 30 days.
Steps:
“1 CAP” = 1 capsule
“PO” = by mouth
“Q2D” = every 2 days
“X 30D” = for 30 days
2 TAB PO TID CC
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth three times a day with meals.
Steps:
“2 TAB” = 2 tablets
“PO” = by mouth
“TID” = three times a day
“CC” = with meals
1 PO CAP QHS X 10/7
Transcription: Take 1 capsule by mouth every evening at bedtime for 7 days.
Steps:
“1 PO CAP” = 1 capsule by mouth
“QHS” = every evening at bedtime
“X 10/7” = for 7 days
1 Q2H OD
Transcription: Instill 1 drop into the right eye every 2 hours.
Steps:
“1” = 1 drop
“Q2H” = every 2 hours
“OD” = into the right eye
II QID X 10 DAYS
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth four times daily for 10 days.
Steps:
“II” = 2 tablets
“QID” = four times a day
“X 10 DAYS” = for 10 days
II Q2H X 8D
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth every 2 hours for 8 days.
Steps:
“II” = 2 tablets
“Q2H” = every 2 hours
“X 8D” = for 8 days
SS TSP QID X 14 DAYS
Transcription: Take ½ teaspoon by mouth four times daily for 14 days.
Steps:
“SS” = ½ (half)
“TSP” = teaspoon
“QID” = four times a day
“X 14 DAYS” = for 14 days
15 ML BID X 4 DOSES
Transcription: Take 15 mL by mouth twice daily for 4 doses.
Steps:
“15 ML” = 15 milliliters
“BID” = twice a day
“X 4 DOSES” = for 4 doses
5 ML PO BID X 4/7
Transcription: Take 5 mL by mouth twice daily for 4 days.
Steps:
“5 ML” = 5 milliliters
“PO” = by mouth
“BID” = twice a day
“X 4/7” = for 4 days
1 TAB TID AC X 10 DAYS
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth three times daily before meals for 10 days.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“TID” = three times a day
“AC” = before meals
“X 10 DAYS” = for 10 days
I STAT, II Q6H PRN
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth immediately, then take 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed.
Steps:
“I” = 1 tablet
“STAT” = immediately
“II” = 2 tablets
“Q6H” = every 6 hours
“PRN” = as needed
1 Q2-3H PRN X 10 DAYS
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth every 2 to 3 hours as needed for 10 days.
Steps:
“1” = 1 tablet
“Q2-3H” = every 2 to 3 hours
“PRN” = as needed
“X 10 DAYS” = for 10 days
II Q4-6H X 1/52
Transcription: Take 2 tablets by mouth every 4 to 6 hours for 1 week.
Steps:
“II” = 2 tablets
“Q4-6H” = every 4 to 6 hours
“X 1/52” = for 1 week
5 ML TID X 10/7 PC
Transcription: Take 5 mL by mouth three times daily after meals for 10 days.
Steps:
“5 ML” = 5 milliliters
“TID” = three times a day
“PC” = after meals
“X 10/7” = for 10 days
1 QOD X 1/12
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth every other day for 1 month.
Steps:
“1” = 1 tablet
“QOD” = every other day
“X 1/12” = for 1 month
1 PV QHS X 3D
Transcription: Insert 1 suppository vaginally every evening at bedtime for 3 days.
Steps:
“1” = 1 suppository
“PV” = vaginally
“QHS” = every evening at bedtime
“X 3D” = for 3 days
1 TID CC AND QHS X 6 DAYS
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth three times daily with meals and every evening at bedtime for 6 days.
Steps:
“1” = 1 tablet
“TID” = three times a day
“CC” = with meals
“AND QHS” = and every evening at bedtime
“X 6 DAYS” = for 6 days
1 QD C LUNCH FOR 10/7
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth every day with lunch for 10 days.
Steps:
“1” = 1 tablet
“QD” = every day
“C” = with
“LUNCH” = lunch
“FOR 10/7” = for 10 days
4QD X 4DAYS, 3QD X 4DAYS, 2QD X 4DAYS, 1QD X 5DAYS
Transcription: Take 4 tablets by mouth every day for 4 days, then 3 tablets every day for 4 days, then 2 tablets every day for 4 days, then 1 tablet every day for 5 days.
Steps:
“4QD X 4DAYS” = 4 tablets every day for 4 days
“3QD X 4DAYS” = 3 tablets every day for 4 days
“2QD X 4DAYS” = 2 tablets every day for 4 days
“1QD X 5DAYS” = 1 tablet every day for 5 days
15 – 30 ML TID X 3/52
Transcription: Take 15 to 30 mL by mouth three times daily for 3 weeks.
Steps:
“15 – 30 ML” = 15 to 30 milliliters
“TID” = three times a day
“X 3/52” = for 3 weeks
1 SL TID PRN SOB
Transcription: Take 1 tablet sublingually three times daily as needed for shortness of breath.
Steps:
“1” = 1 tablet
“SL” = sublingually
“TID” = three times a day
“PRN” = as needed
“SOB” = shortness of breath
1 SS BID PRN
Transcription: Take ½ tablet by mouth twice daily as needed.
Steps:
“1 SS” = ½ (half) tablet
“BID” = twice a day
“PRN” = as needed
1 PR BID AND AFTER EACH BM X 3/7
Transcription: Insert 1 suppository rectally twice daily and after each bowel movement for 3 days.
Steps:
“1” = 1 suppository
“PR” = rectally
“BID” = twice a day
“AND AFTER EACH BM” = and after each bowel movement
“X 3/7” = for 3 days
1 TAB PO QOD ALTERNATING WITH 2 TABS X 2/52
Transcription: Take 1 tablet by mouth every other day, alternating with 2 tablets every other day for 2 weeks.
Steps:
“1 TAB” = 1 tablet
“PO” = by mouth
“QOD” = every other day
“ALTERNATING WITH 2 TABS” = alternating with 2 tablets
“X 2/52” = for 2 weeks
A
ad (to)
AA
ante meridiem (before noon)
AC
ante cibum
AD
auris dextra (right ear)
AMP
ampule (a small sealed vial)
AQ
aqua (water)
AS
auris sinistra (left ear)
AD LIB
ad libitum (as desired)
AU
auris utraque (both ears)
C
centum (hundred)
BID
bis in die (twice a day)
CAP
capsule (a form of medication)
CC
cubic centimeter (ml)
GTT
guttae (drops)
H
hora (hour)
HS
hora somni (at bedtime)
IC
intracardiac (within the heart)
IM
intramuscular (within the muscle)
IV
intravenous (within the vein)
INJ
injection (a method of delivering medication)
LIQ
liquid (a form of medication)
MITTE
send (to dispense)
ML
millilitre (a unit of volume)
NOCT
nocte (at night)
NPO
ni per os (nothing by mouth)
OD
oculus dexter (right eye)
OS
oculus sinister (left eye)
OU
oculus uterque (both eyes)
OZ
ounce (a unit of weight)
PC
post cibum (After meals)
PO
per os (by mouth)
PER RECT
per rectum (by rectum)
PRN
pro re nata (as needed)
PRN PAIN
as needed for pain
Q
quaque (every)
QAM
quaque ante meridiem (every morning)
QD
quaque die (every day)
QH
quaque hora (every hour)
Q2H
quaque 2 hora (every 2 hours)
Q4H
quaque 4 hora (every 4 hours)
Q6H
quaque 6 hora (every 6 hours)
QID
quarter in die (four times a day)
QS
quantum sufficit (a sufficient quantity)
QS AD
a sufficient quantity in the right ear
RX
recipe (intake)
S
sine (without)
SC
subcutaneously (under the skin)
SL
sublingually (under the tongue)
SOB
shortness of breath
SS
half (1/2)
SIG
signa (label)
SUPP
suppository (a form of medication)
STAT
statim (immediately)
SYR
syrup (a form of medication)
TAB
tablet (a form of medication)
TBSP
tablespoon (a unit of volume)
TPN
total parenteral nutrition (nutrition provided intravenously)
TSP
teaspoon (a unit of volume)
TR
tincture (a solution of alcohol and medicinal substances)
TUSS
tussis (cough)
TID
ter in die (three times a day)
UD
ut dictum (as directed)
UNG
unguentum (ointment)
VAG
vaginally (in the vagina)
Haloperidol 5.0 mg
Correct to Haloperidol 5 mg (remove the trailing zero).
Synthroid .15 mg
Correct to Synthroid 0.15 mg (add a leading zero).
Atorvastatin 10mg
Correct to Atorvastatin 10 mg (add a space before the unit).
MgSO4
Correct to Magnesium sulfate (spell out the name).
Voltaren ointment 50 gm
Correct to Voltaren ointment 50 g (use “g” for grams).
Digoxin 0.25 mgm
Correct to Digoxin 0.25 mg (use “mg” instead of “mgm”).
Humulin NPH 25 U
Correct to Humulin NPH 25 units (spell out “units”).
Warfarin 5 mg qod
Correct to Warfarin 5 mg every other day (spell out “qod”).
Common Medication Order Errors
Avoid trailing zeros; use leading zeros; spell out medication names to prevent confusion.
What is the primary purpose of calculating prescription quantities?
To determine the correct amount of medication to dispense when prescriptions lack complete information.
How do you calculate total quantity when the prescription includes days supply?
Multiply the daily dosage by the number of days prescribed.
Example: “Take 2 tablets by mouth twice daily for 30 days” → 2 × 2 × 30 = 120 tablets.
What is the calculation method when the prescription has total quantity but no days supply?
Divide the total quantity by the daily dosage.
Example: “Take 2 tablets by mouth once daily - Dispense 120” → 120 ÷ 2 = 60 days supply.
How should you handle prescriptions with varied instructions?
Assume the highest usage for calculations.
Example: “Take 1 to 2 tablets by mouth twice daily as needed for 10 days” → 2 × 2 × 10 = 40 tablets total.
Why is calculating days supply important?
It affects insurance reimbursement and ensures patients receive the correct amount of medication.
What does the abbreviation “BID” stand for?
Twice a day.
What does “PRN” mean in a prescription?
As needed.
What is the meaning of “AC” in medication instructions?
Before meals.
What does “TID” indicate?
Three times a day.
What is a common error when writing medication orders?
Using ambiguous abbreviations that can lead to misinterpretation.
How should “Digoxin 0.25 mgm” be corrected?
It should be written as “Digoxin 0.25 mg.”
What is the correct way to write “Haloperidol 5.0 mg”?
Haloperidol 5 mg (remove the trailing zero).
Why is it important to use leading zeros in medication orders?
To prevent misinterpretation of dosages, especially with decimals.
What should you do if a prescription is unclear?
Always clarify with the prescriber to avoid medication errors.
What is the significance of completing a Dispensing Math Worksheet?
It reinforces learning and helps ensure accuracy in calculations.
