ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7English and Language UsageMedium
A nurse is preparing to administer medication to a patient. The physician's order states, 'Medication X 10 mg PO BID.' The nurse correctly interprets this order. Which of the following is the correct interpretation of the administration route?
- AIntravenously
- BOrally
- CSubcutaneously
- DTopically
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Orally
The abbreviation 'PO' stands for 'per os', which is Latin for 'by mouth' or 'orally'. Therefore, the medication should be administered by mouth.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Intravenously would be indicated by 'IV'.
- C. Subcutaneously would be indicated by 'SubQ' or 'SC'.
- D. Topically would be indicated by 'TOP' or specific instructions for skin application.
Medical Abbreviation: PO
A common medical abbreviation derived from Latin, specifying that medication should be administered by mouth.
- Stands for 'per os' (Latin)
- Means 'by mouth' or 'orally'
- One of the most common routes of medication administration
- Requires patient to be able to swallow
Memory trick: Routes are vital, know your 'how' for proper care.