common medical abbreviations NPO-prn

NPO

Nothing by mouth.

withhold food or fluids

PO

Oral (by mouth).

abbreviation from latin term “per os” meaning by mouth or orally. often used in prescriptions:

“take one tablet po twice a day”

O2

Oxygen.

abbreviation for oxygen consumption

OT

Occupational Therapy.

occupational therapy helps residents participate in tasks and activities that they want or need to do as part of their lives.

oz

Ounce.

a unit of volume equal to thirty (30) c.c or mL .

1 ounce = 30 c.c or 30 mL

p.c.

After meals.

abbreviation from the latin phrase “post cibum” meaning after meals.

“Take one tabet po p.c.”

Peri

Perineal.

perineal care is the cleaning of the genital, groin, and rectal areas. usually called peri-care.

P.M.

12 noon to midnight.

an abbreviation for the latin phrase “post merīdiem” meaning after midday

PT

Physical Therapy.

the goal of physical therapy is to restore, maintain, or promote optimal physical function

p.r.n

As needed.

abbreviation for the latin term, “pro re nata” which loosely translates to as needed.

“take one tablet po p.r.n for pain”