Order Entry

SIG Code

An abbreviation used to communicate directions for taking a medication.

PO

By mouth/orally.

BID

Twice daily.

TID

Three times daily.

QID

Four times daily.

PRN

As needed.

QD

Every day/daily; an abbreviation that can be misread, so safer wording is preferred.

HS

At bedtime.

AC

Before meals.

PC

After meals.

STAT

Immediately.

SL

Under the tongue (sublingual).

IM

Into the muscle (intramuscular).

IV

Into a vein (intravenous).

SubQ/SQ

Under the skin (subcutaneous).

Prescription Interpretation

Reading a prescription to identify the patient, medication, strength, dosage form, directions, quantity, and refills.

Strength

The amount of active drug in each dosage unit (example: 500 mg per tablet).

Dosage Form

The physical form of a medication, such as a tablet, capsule, cream, solution, or suspension.

Quantity

The total amount of medication being dispensed.

Days' Supply

How long the dispensed quantity should last based on the directions.

NDC

National Drug Code; identifies a drug product, labeler, product code, and package.

BIN

Bank Identification Number; identifies the prescription insurance processor for a pharmacy claim.

PCN

Processor Control Number; helps route and process a pharmacy insurance claim.

Formulary

An insurance plan's list of covered or preferred medications.

Prior Authorization (PA)

Insurance approval required before certain medications will be covered.

Copay

The fixed amount the patient pays for a covered prescription.

Deductible

The amount a patient must pay before insurance begins paying according to the plan.

Rejection

An insurance claim that was not approved for payment.

Rebilling

Resubmitting a prescription claim after correcting information or changing billing details.