Medical Abbreviations and Acronyms

A1C

Glycosylated hemoglobin, also known as hemoglobin A1c.

ABG

Arterial blood gas, a test that measures the acidity (pH) and levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

AAD

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

AED

Automated external defibrillator.

BLS

Basic Life Support, a level of medical care used for victims of life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

CNA

Certified Nursing Assistant.

CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, an emergency procedure to maintain circulation and breathing.

DNR

Do Not Resuscitate, an order that tells medical personnel not to perform CPR.

EMT

Emergency Medical Technician, a trained provider of emergency medical services.

IV

Intravenous, a method of delivering fluids, medication, or nutrients directly into a vein.

NPO

Nothing by mouth, a medical instruction to withhold oral food and fluids.

OB

Obstetrics, the branch of medicine dealing with childbirth and the care of women giving birth.

PPE

Personal Protective Equipment, gear designed to protect the wearer from hazards.

PRN

As needed, a term used in medical prescriptions to indicate that the medicine should be taken only when necessary.

ROM

Range of motion, a term used to describe the extent of movement in a joint.

UTI

Urinary tract infection, an infection in any part of the urinary system.

WBC

White blood cell, a part of the immune system that helps fight infections.

XR

X-ray, a form of electromagnetic radiation used to create images of the inside of the body.