9 Medical Abbreviations and Safe Usage Free Online FlashCards

How should you interpret an unfamiliar medical abbreviation?

Use surrounding text, the body system, the document type, and local policy; do not guess from the letters alone.

What does CBC commonly mean in a laboratory result?

Complete blood count, a laboratory test or blood-test result.

How can context distinguish the two common meanings of PT?

In a rehabilitation plan, PT likely means physical therapy; in a blood-test result, it likely means prothrombin time.

Why is MS risky shorthand in medication-related writing?

In medication-related writing, MS may mean morphine sulfate or magnesium sulfate. Spell out the full name to avoid confusion.

Why should you check local policy before using an abbreviation?

There is no universal list of approved abbreviations; facilities may set rules for particular documents.

What should you do when an abbreviation remains unclear?

Do not guess. Check an approved reference or ask the responsible clinician or pharmacist.

What wording is safer than U, IU, or cc?

Write “unit” instead of U or IU, and write mL instead of cc.

How should medication frequency be written instead of QD or QOD?

Write “every day” or “every other day” instead of QD or QOD.

How should a dose below one be written?

Use a leading zero: write 0.5 mg, not .5 mg.

How should a number and medication unit be spaced?

Put a space between the number and unit: write 10 mg, not 10mg.

What does MRI commonly mean in an imaging report?

Magnetic resonance imaging, an imaging test.

What does CNS commonly refer to?

Central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.