Medical Abbreviations

ac = before meals

ad lib = as desired
bid = twice a day
BP = blood pressure

c = with

cc = centimeters - same as millimeters (use millimeters)

CR = controlled release
cap = capsule

DS = double strength
EC = enteric coated
ext = extract
h = hour
Nightly= hour of sleep, bedtime
IM = intramuscular
IV = intravenous
IVP = intravenous push

IVPB = intravenous piggyback

NKA= No known allergies

NKDA = No known drug allergies
KVO = keep vein open
NG = nasogastric
NJ = nasojejunal
NPO = nothing by mouth
NS = normal saline
OTC = over the counter
pc = after meals (post cibum)
per = by

pm = after noon (post meridian)
PO= by mouth (can also use by mouth or orally)

PPE = personal protective equipment
pr = per rectal
prn = whenever necessary
q1h = every 1 hour
q2h = every 2 hours
q3h = every 3 hours
q4h = every 4 hours

q6h = every 6 hours

q8h = every 8 hours

qh = every hour
qid = four times a day
ROM = range of motion
s = without
Subcut or subcutaneously = subcutaneous    
sl = sublingual
SR = sustained release
stat = immediately
supp = suppository
susp = suspension
tab = tablet
tid = three times a day

VO = verbal order
VS = vital signs
WNL = within normal limits