NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Foundational Knowledge and Basic ScienceMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to administer an oral medication to a patient. The order states '1 tablet PO daily'. What does the 'PO' abbreviation signify regarding the route of administration?
- APer rectum
- BAs needed
- CAfter meals
- DBy mouth
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. By mouth
The medical abbreviation 'PO' stands for 'per os', which is Latin for 'by mouth'. It indicates that the medication should be administered orally.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'PR' (per rectum) means by rectum.
- B. 'PRN' (pro re nata) means as needed.
- C. 'PC' (post cibum) means after meals.
Medical Abbreviation: PO
A common medical abbreviation derived from the Latin 'per os', meaning 'by mouth', used to indicate the oral route of medication administration.
- Always verify abbreviations to prevent errors.
- One of the most common routes for medication.
- Essential for correct drug administration.
Memory trick: PO: 'Per Oral' or 'Pills Only' by mouth.