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HUC Abbreviations
Health Unit Coordinating Abbreviations
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| > | greater than |
| < | less than |
| ↑ | increase or above |
| / | per or by |
| Δ | change |
| @ | at |
| ↓ | decrease or below |
| o | degree or hour |
| A | apical |
| AA | active assisted |
| A&A | arthroscopy and arthrotomy |
| ā | before |
| åå | of each |
| AAROM | active-assistive range of motion |
| Ab | antibody |
| abd | abdominal |
| ABG | arterial blood gas |
| ABR | absolute bed rest |
| Ac | before meals |
| ACL | anterior cruciate ligament repair |
| AD | right ear |
| ADA | American Diabetic Association |
| ADE | adverse drug event |
| ADH | antidiuretic hormone (chemistry) |
| ADL | activity(ies) of daily living |
| ad lib | as desired |
| A-drive | floppy drive |
| ADS | adult distress syndrome |
| ADT Log Book | a book used to record all admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit |
| ADT Sheet | a form used to record admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit for each day |
| AE | antiembolism |
| AFB | acid-fast bacillus |
| Ag | antigen |
| AHA | American Heart Association |
| AIDS | acquired immunodeficiency syndrome |
| AKA | above the knee amputation |
| ALP or alk phos | alkaline phosphatase (chemistry) |
| A.M. | morning |
| AMA | against medical advice |
| amb | ambulate |
| AMO | against medical orders |
| amp | ampule |
| ANA | American Nurses Association; antinuclear antibody (serology) |
| ANCC | American Nurses Credentialing Center |
| A&O | alert and oriented |
| AP | anteroposterior |
| A&P repair | anterior and posterior colporraphy |
| A&P resection | abdominoperineal resection |
| appt | appointment |
| APS | Adult Protective Services |
| ARC | AIDS-related complex |
| ARDS | acute (adult) respiratory distress syndrome |
| AROM | active range of motion |
| AS | left ear |
| ASA | acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) |
| ASAP | as soon as possible |
| as tol | as tolerated |
| AU | both ears |
| AV fistula | arteriovenous fistula |
| AV shunt | atrial/ventricular shunt |
| ax | axillary |
| BAER or AER | brainstem auditory response |
| BC | blood culture |
| BCOC | bowel care of choice |
| BE | barium enema |
| BIBA | brought in by ambulance |
| bid | twice a day |
| bili | bilirubin |
| BiPap | bilevel positive airway pressure |
| BiW, biw | twice a week |
| BKA | below the knee amputation |
| B/L | bilateral |
| BLE | both lower extremities |
| BM | bowel movement |
| BMI | body mass index |
| BMP | basic metabolic panel |
| BNP | brain natriuretic peptide |
| BP | blood pressure |
| BR | bed rest |
| BRP | bathroom privileges |
| BS | blood sugar |
| BSC | bedside commode |
| BUE | both upper extremities |
| BUN | blood urea nitrogen |
| Bx | biopsy |
| c | with |
| C | Celsius |
| Ca | cancer |
| Ca+ | calcium |
| CABG | coronary artery bypass graft |
| CAD | coronary artery disease |
| cal | calorie |
| cap | capsule |
| CAT | computed axial tomography |
| cath | catheterize |
| CBC | complete blood cell count |
| CBG | capillary blood gas |
| CBI | continuous bladder irrigation |
| CBR | continuous bed rest |
| cc or cm3 | cubic centimeter |
| CC, creat cl, or cr cl | creatinine clearance (chemistry) |
| CCM | certified case manager |
| ccu | coronary care unit |
| CDC | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| C-drive | hard drive stored inside the computer |
| CDSS | clinical decision support system/s |
| CE | covered entities |
| CEA | carcinoembryonic antigen (special chemistry) |
| CEO | chief executive officer |
| CFO | chief financial officer |
| CHF | congestive heart failure |
| CHO | carbohydrate |
| chol | cholesterol |
| CHUC | certified health unit coordinator |
| CI | clinical indication |
| cl or CL | clear; chloride (chemistry) |
| cm | centimeter |
| CMP | comprehensive metabolic panel |
| CMS | circulation, motion, sensation |
| CMT | cardiac monitor technician |
| CMV | cytomegalovirus |
| CNA | certified nursing assistant |
| c/o | complained of |
| CO2 | carbon dioxide |
| COA or C of A | condition of admission |
| comp or cmpd | compound |
| con't | continue |
| COO | chief operating officer |
| COPD | chronic obstructive pulmonary disease |
| COW | computer on wheels |
| CP | cold pack |
| CPAP | continuous positive airway pressure |
| CPK or CK | creatine phosphokinase or creatine kinase (chemistry) |
| CPM | continuous passive motion |
| CPOE | computer physician order entry |
| CPR | cardiopulmonary resuscitation |
| CPS | Child Protective Services |
| CPT | chest physical therapy |
| CPU | central processing unit |
| CPZ | Compazine |
| CQI | continuous quality improvement |
| C&S | culture and sensitivity |
| CSF | cerebrospinal fluid |
| CT | computed tomography |
| CVA | cerebrovascular accident |
| CVC | central venous catheter |
| CVICU | cardiovascular intensive critical care unit |
| CVP | central venous pressure |
| Cx | culture |
| CXR | chest X-ray |
| D or E drive | drive/s to read CDs or DVDs |
| DAT | diet as tolerated; direct antiglobulin test |
| D/C or DC | discontinue or discharge |
| Diff | differential |
| Dig | digoxin |
| Disch | discharge |
| D/LR | dextrose in lactated Ringer's solution |
| DME | durable medical equipment |
| DMS | document management system |
| DNR | do not resuscitate |
| D/NS | dextrose in normal saline |
| DO | doctor of osteopathy |
| DOA | dead on arrival |
| DPI | dry powder inhaler |
| dr | dram |
| DRG | diagnosis-related group |
| D/RL | dextrose in Ringer's lactate |
| DSA | digital subtraction angiography |
| DSS | dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Colace) |
| DSU | day surgery unit |
| D/W | dextrose in water |
| DW | distilled water |
| D5W | 5% dextrose in water |
| D10W | 10% dextrose in water |
| Dx | diagnosis |
| EBV | Epstein-Barr virus |
| EC | enteric coated |
| ECF | extended care facility |
| ECG or EKG | electrocardiogram |
| ED | emergency department |
| EEC | electroencephalogram |
| EGD | esophagogastroduodenoscopy |
| elix | elixir |
| EMG | electromyogram |
| EMR | electronic medical record |
| ENG | electronystagmography |
| EPC | electronic pain control |
| EPHI | electronic protected health information |
| EPS | electrophysiologic study |
| ER | emergency room |
| ERCP | endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography |
| ES | electrical stimulation |
| ESR | erythrocyte sedimentation rate |
| ESRD | end-stage renal disease |
| ET | endotracheal tube |
| ETS | elevated toilet seat |
| F | Fahrenheit |
| FBS | fasting blood sugar |
| Fe | iron |
| FF | force fluids |
| FFP | fresh frozen plasma |
| fib | fibrinogen |
| FPG | fasting plasma glucose (chemistry) |
| FS | full strength; frozen section |
| 5-FU | 5-fluorouracil |
| F/U | follow-up |
| FWB | full weight bearing |
| FWW | front wheel walker |
| Fx, fx | fracture |
| G, gm, g | gram |
| GB | gallbladder |
| GI | gastrointestinal |
| glue | glucose |
| gr | grain |
| GTT | glucose tolerance test |
| gtt(s) | drop(s) |
| Gyn | gynecology |
| h, hr, hrs | hour/s |
| h or (H) | hypodermic |
| HA | heated aerosol |
| H/A | headache |
| HBOT | hyperbaric O2 therapy |
| HBsAg | hepatitis B surface antigen |
| HBV | hepatitis B virus |
| hCG | human chorionic gonadotropin |
| hct | hematocrit |
| HCTZ | hydrochlorothiazide |
| HCV | hepatitis C virus |
| HD | hemodialysis |
| HDL | high-density lipoprotein |
| hgb | hemoglobin |
| H&H | hemoglobin and hematocrit |
| HIMS | health information management system |
| HIPAA | Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act |
| HIV | human immunodeficiency virus |
| HIVB24Ag | human immunodeficiency virus antigen screen (serology) |
| HL or hep-lock | heparin lock |
| HMO | health maintenance organization |
| HNP | herniated nucleus pulposus |
| HO | house officer |
| h/o | history of |
| H2O | water |
| H2O2 | hydrogen peroxide |
| HOB | head of bed |
| H&P | history and physical |
| HP | hot pack |
| hs | bedtime |
| HSV | herpes simplex virus |
| HUC | health unit coordinator; health unit clerk |
| HUS | health unit secretary |
| Hx | history |
| ICD | implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; International Classification of Diseases |
| ICU | intensive care unit |
| ID labels | identification labels |
| IIHI | individually identifiable health information |
| IM | intramuscular |
| I&O | intake and output |
| IPG | impedance plethysmography |
| IPPB | intermittent positive-pressure breathing |
| irrig | irrigate |
| IS | incentive spirometry |
| ISOM | isometric |
| IV | intravenous |
| IVDU | intravenous drug user |
| IVF | intravenous fluids |
| IVP | intravenous pyelogram |
| IVPB | intravenous piggyback |
| IVU | intravenous urogram |
| K | potassium |
| KG | potassium chloride |
| kg | kilogram |
| KO or KVO | keep open / keep vein open |
| KUB | kidneys, ureters, and bladder |
| L | liter |
| lat | lateral |
| lb, | |
| L&D | labor and delivery |
| LDL | low-density lipoprotein |
| LE | lower extremity |
| liq | liquid |
| LLE | left lower extremity |
| LLL | left lower lobe |
| LLQ | left lower quadrant |
| L/min | liters per minute |
| LOC | laxative of choice; leave on chart; level of consciousness; loss of consciousness |
| LP | lumbar puncture |
| LPN | licensed practical nurse |
| LR | lactated Ringer's solution |
| L&S | liver and spleen |
| LS | lumbosacral |
| Lt | left |
| LTC | long-term care |
| LUE | left upper extremity |
| LUL | left upper lobe |
| LUQ | left upper quadrant |
| lytes or e-lytes | electrolytes |
| MAR | medication administration record |
| MD | doctor of medicine |
| MDI | metered-dose inhaler |
| Med | medical |
| mEq | milliequivalent |
| mets | metastasis |
| u,g, meg | microgram |
| mg | milligram |
| Mg or Mg+ | magnesium |
| MgSO | magnesium sulfate |
| MI | myocardial infarction |
| MICU | medical intensive care unit |
| min | minute |
| mL | milliliter |
| MN | midnight |
| MOM | Milk of Magnesia |
| MR | may repeat |
| MRI | magnetic resonance imaging |
| MRSA | methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus |
| MSO4 or MS | morphine sulfate |
| MSSU | medical short-stay unit |
| Na or Na+ | sodium |
| NAHUC | National Association of Health Unit Coordinators |
| NAS | no added salt |
| NCS | nerve conduction study |
| nec | necessary |
| Neuro | neurology |
| NG | nasogastric |
| NICU | neonatal intensive care unit |
| NINP | no information, no publication |
| NKA | no known allergies |
| NKDA | no known drug allergies |
| NKFA | no known food allergies |
| NKMA | no known medication allergies |
| nh3 | ammonia |
| noc | night |
| non rep | do not repeat |
| NP | nasopharynx |
| NPO | nothing by mouth |
| NS | normal saline |
| NSA | no salt added |
| NTG | nitroglycerin |
| N/V | nausea and vomiting |
| NVS or neuro s | neurologic vital signs or checks |
| NWB | non-weight bearing |
| O2 | oxygen |
| OB | obstetrics |
| OBS | observation |
| OCG | oral cholecystogram |
| OD | right eye |
| OOB | out of bed |
| O&P | ova and parasites |
| OPS | outpatient surgery |
| OR | operating room |
| ORE | oil-retention enema |
| ORIF | open reduction, internal fixation |
| Ortho | orthopedics |
| OS | left eye |
| OSA | obstructive sleep apnea |
| OSHA | Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
| OSMO | osmolality |
| OT | occupational therapy |
| OTC | over-the-counter |
| OU | both eyes |
| oz | ounce |
| p (with line above) | after |
| P | pulse |
| PA | posteroanterior |
| PACS | Picture Archiving and Communication Systems |
| PACU | postanesthesia care unit |
| PAP | prostatic acid phosphatase |
| PAS | pulsatile antiembolism stockings |
| PBZ | pyribenzamine |
| PC | personal computer; packed cell |
| pc | after meals |
| PCA | patient-controlled analgesia |
| PCN | penicillin |
| PCP | primary care physician |
| PCT | patient care technician |
| PCV | packed-cell volume (hematology; same as hematocrit) |
| PCXR | portable chest X-ray |
| PD | peritoneal dialysis |
| PDPV | postural drainage, percussion, and vibration |
| PDR | Physicians' Desk Reference |
| Peds | pediatrics |
| PEEP | positive end-expiratory pressure |
| PEG | percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy |
| PEP | positive expiratory pressure |
| PET | positron emission tomography |
| pH | hydrogen ion concentration (acidity) |
| PHI | protected health information reference |
| PICC | peripherally inserted central catheter |
| PICU | pediatric intensive care unit |
| PID | pelvic inflammatory disease |
| PKU | phenylketonuria (chemistry) |
| P.M. | evening, night |
| PO | by mouth, or postoperative |
| P04 or phos | phosphate or phosphorus (chemistry) |
| POCT or PCT | point-of-care testing |
| Postop, postop | after surgery |
| PP | postpartum |
| pp | postprandial (after meals) |
| P&PD | percussion and postural drainage |
| PPE | personal protective equipment |
| PPO | preferred provider organization |
| pr | per rectum |
| Preop, preop | before surgery |
| prn | whenever necessary |
| PROM | passive range of motion |
| PSA | patient support associate; prostate-specific antigen |
| Psych | psychiatry |
| PT | physical therapy; prothrombin time |
| Pt | patient |
| PTA | physical therapy assistant |
| PTCA | percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty |
| PTHC or PTC | percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography |
| PIT or APTT | partial thromboplastin time or activated partial thromboplastin time |
| PWB | partial weight bearing |
| q | every |
| qd | every day; daily |
| qh | every hour (or fill in hour [e.g., q4h]) |
| qid | four times a day |
| qns | quantity not sufficient |
| qod | every other day |
| R | rectal |
| RA | room air |
| R*A*C*E | Rescue individuals in danger; Alarm—sound the alarm; Confine the fire by closing all doors and windows; Extinguish the fire with the nearest suitable fire extinguisher |
| RBC | red blood cell |
| RBS | random blood sugar |
| RD | registered dietitian |
| ROW | red cell distribution width |
| reg | regular |
| Retics | reticulocytes (hematology) |
| RIS | radiology information system |
| RL | Ringer's lactate |
| RLE | right lower extremity |
| RLL | right lower lobe |
| RLQ | right lower quadrant |
| R&M | routine and microscopic |
| RML | right middle lobe |
| RN | registered nurse |
| R/0 | rule out |
| ROM | range of motion |
| Rout | routine |
| RPR | rapid plasmin reagin |
| RR | recovery room; respiratory rate |
| RSV | respiratory syncytial virus |
| RT | respiratory therapist |
| Rt | routine |
| rt or ® | right |
| RUE | right upper extremity |
| RUL | right upper lobe |
| RUQ | right upper quadrant |
| Rx | take (e.g., treatment, medication) |
| s (with line above) | without |
| ss | semis (one-half) |
| S&A | sugar and acetone (urinalysis) |
| SAD | save a day |
| SaO2 or O2 sats | oxygen saturation |
| SBFT | small bowel follow-through |
| SBO | small bowel obstruction |
| SBU | small business unit |
| SC, sq, or sub-q | subcutaneous |
| SCO | sequential compression device |
| SDS | same-day surgery |
| SEP | somatosensory evoked potential |
| SHUC | student health unit coordinator |
| SICU | surgical intensive care unit |
| SIDS | sudden infant death syndrome |
| SL | sublingual |
| SNAT | suspected nonaccidental trauma |
| SNF | skilled nursing facility |
| SO4 | sulfate |
| SOB | shortness of breath |
| sol'n | solution |
| SOS | if needed (one dose only) |
| SR | slow release |
| SSE | soap suds enema |
| SSU | short-stay unit |
| st | straight |
| stat | immediately |
| STM | soft tissue massage |
| subling, SL | sublingual (under the tongue) |
| supp | suppository |
| Surg | surgery |
| SVN | small volume nebulizer |
| syr | syrup |
| T3,T4,T7 | thyroid tests |
| T&A | tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy |
| tab | tablet |
| TAH | total abdominal hysterectomy |
| TB | tuberculosis |
| TBD | to be done |
| TBT | template bleeding time |
| T&C or T&X-match | type and crossmatch |
| TCDB | turn, cough, deep breathe |
| TCT or TT | thrombin clotting time or thrombin time |
| TDWB | touchdown weight bearing |
| Ted | antiembolism stockings |
| temp | temperature |
| TENS | transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation |
| THR or THA | total hip replacement/total hip arthroplasty |
| TIA | transient ischemic attack |
| TIBC | total iron-binding capacity (chemistry) |
| TICU | trauma intensive care unit |
| tid | three times a day |
| Timed Specimen | to be drawn at specified time |
| tinct or tr | tincture |
| TJC | The Joint Commission |
| TKO | to keep open |
| TKR or TKA | total knee replacement/total knee arthroplasty |
| TPN | total parenteral nutrition |
| TPR | temperature, pulse, respiration |
| TRA | to run at |
| Trig or TG | triglycerides (chemistry) |
| T&S | type and screen |
| TSH | thyroid-stimulating hormone |
| T/stat | timed stat |
| TT | tilt table |
| TTOT | transtracheal oxygen therapy |
| TTWB | toe-touch weight bearing |
| TUR | transurethral resection |
| TWE | tap water enema |
| Tx | traction or treatment |
| u | unit |
| UA or U/A | urinalysis |
| UC | urine culture |
| UCR | usual, customary, and reasonable |
| UD | unit dose |
| UGI | upper gastrointestinal |
| ung | unguent (ointment) |
| US | ultrasound |
| USN | ultrasonic nebulizer |
| VAD | venous access device |
| VDRL | Venereal Disease Research Laboratories |
| VDT | video display terminal |
| VEP | visual evoked potential |
| vib & perc | vibration and percussion |
| VMA | vanillylmandelic acid |
| VNS | visiting nurse service |
| VS | vital sign |
| WA or W/A | while awake |
| WBAT | weight bearing as tolerated |
| WBC | white blood cell |
| WHO | World Health Organization |
| wk | week |
| WNL | within normal limits |
| WP | whirlpool |
| wt | weight |
| WWW | World Wide Web |
| X-match | crossmatch |
| Zn | zinc |
| > | greater than |
| < | less than |
| ↑ | increase or above |
| / | per or by |
| Δ | change |
| @ | at |
| ↓ | decrease or below |
| ̊ | degree or hour |
| A | apical |
| AA | active assisted |
| A&A | arthroscopy and arthrotomy |
| ā | before |
| åå | of each |
| AAROM | active-assistive range of motion |
| Ab | antibody |
| abd | abdominal |
| ABG | arterial blood gas |
| ABR | absolute bed rest |
| Ac | before meals |
| ACL | anterior cruciate ligament repair |
| AD | right ear |
| ADA | American Diabetic Association |
| ADE | adverse drug event |
| ADH | antidiuretic hormone (chemistry) |
| ADL | activity(ies) of daily living |
| ad lib | as desired |
| A-drive | floppy drive |
| ADS | adult distress syndrome |
| ADT Log Book | a book used to record all admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit |
| ADT Sheet | a form used to record admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit for each day |
| AE | antiembolism |
| AFB | acid-fast bacillus |
| Ag | antigen |
| AHA | American Heart Association |
| AIDS | acquired immunodeficiency syndrome |
| AKA | above the knee amputation |
| ALP or alk phos | alkaline phosphatase (chemistry) |
| A.M. | morning |
| AMA | against medical advice |
| amb | ambulate |
| AMO | against medical orders |
| amp | ampule |
| ANA | American Nurses Association; antinuclear antibody (serology) |
| ANCC | American Nurses Credentialing Center |
| A&O | alert and oriented |
| AP | anteroposterior |
| A&P repair | anterior and posterior colporraphy |
| A&P resection | abdominoperineal resection |
| appt | appointment |
| APS | Adult Protective Services |
| ARC | AIDS-related complex |
| ARDS | acute (adult) respiratory distress syndrome |
| AROM | active range of motion |
| AS | left ear |
| ASA | acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) |
| ASAP | as soon as possible |
| as tol | as tolerated |
| AU | both ears |
| AV fistula | arteriovenous fistula |
| AV shunt | atrial/ventricular shunt |
| ax | axillary |
| BAER or AER | brainstem auditory response |
| BC | blood culture |
| BCOC | bowel care of choice |
| BE | barium enema |
| BIBA | brought in by ambulance |
| bid | twice a day |
| bili | bilirubin |
| BiPap | bilevel positive airway pressure |
| BiW, biw | twice a week |
| BKA | below the knee amputation |
| B/L | bilateral |
| BLE | both lower extremities |
| BM | bowel movement |
| BMI | body mass index |
| BMP | basic metabolic panel |
| BNP | brain natriuretic peptide |
| BP | blood pressure |
| BR | bed rest |
| BRP | bathroom privileges |
| BS | blood sugar |
| BSC | bedside commode |
| BUE | both upper extremities |
| BUN | blood urea nitrogen |
| Bx | biopsy |
| c | with |
| C | Celsius |
| Ca | cancer |
| Ca+ | calcium |
| CABG | coronary artery bypass graft |
| CAD | coronary artery disease |
| cal | calorie |
| cap | capsule |
| CAT | computed axial tomography |
| cath | catheterize |
| CBC | complete blood cell count |
| CBG | capillary blood gas |
| CBI | continuous bladder irrigation |
| CBR | continuous bed rest |
| cc or cm3 | cubic centimeter |
| CC, creat cl, or cr cl | creatinine clearance (chemistry) |
| CCM | certified case manager |
| ccu | coronary care unit |
| CDC | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| C-drive | hard drive stored inside the computer |
| CDSS | clinical decision support system/s |
| CE | covered entities |
| CEA | carcinoembryonic antigen (special chemistry) |
| CEO | chief executive officer |
| CFO | chief financial officer |
| CHF | congestive heart failure |
| CHO | carbohydrate |
| chol | cholesterol |
| CHUC | certified health unit coordinator |
| CI | clinical indication |
| cl or CL | clear; chloride (chemistry) |
| cm | centimeter |
| CMP | comprehensive metabolic panel |
| CMS | circulation, motion, sensation |
| CMT | cardiac monitor technician |
| CMV | cytomegalovirus |
| CNA | certified nursing assistant |
| c/o | complained of |
| CO2 | carbon dioxide |
| COA or C of A | condition of admission |
| comp or cmpd | compound |
| con't | continue |
| COO | chief operating officer |
| COPD | chronic obstructive pulmonary disease |
| COW | computer on wheels |
| CP | cold pack |
| CPAP | continuous positive airway pressure |
| CPK or CK | creatine phosphokinase or creatine kinase (chemistry) |
| CPM | continuous passive motion |
| CPOE | computer physician order entry |
| CPR | cardiopulmonary resuscitation |
| CPS | Child Protective Services |
| CPT | chest physical therapy |
| CPU | central processing unit |
| CPZ | Compazine |
| CQI | continuous quality improvement |
| C&S | culture and sensitivity |
| CSF | cerebrospinal fluid |
| CT | computed tomography |
| CVA | cerebrovascular accident |
| CVC | central venous catheter |
| CVICU | cardiovascular intensive critical care unit |
| CVP | central venous pressure |
| Cx | culture |
| CXR | chest X-ray |
| D or E drive | drive/s to read CDs or DVDs |
| DAT | diet as tolerated; direct antiglobulin test |
| D/C or DC | discontinue or discharge |
| Diff | differential |
| Dig | digoxin |
| Disch | discharge |
| D/LR | dextrose in lactated Ringer's solution |
| DME | durable medical equipment |
| DMS | document management system |
| DNR | do not resuscitate |
| D/NS | dextrose in normal saline |
| DO | doctor of osteopathy |
| DOA | dead on arrival |
| DPI | dry powder inhaler |
| dr | dram |
| DRG | diagnosis-related group |
| D/RL | dextrose in Ringer's lactate |
| DSA | digital subtraction angiography |
| DSS | dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Colace) |
| DSU | day surgery unit |
| D/W | dextrose in water |
| DW | distilled water |
| D5W | 5% dextrose in water |
| D10W | 10% dextrose in water |
| Dx | diagnosis |
| EBV | Epstein-Barr virus |
| EC | enteric coated |
| ECF | extended care facility |
| ECG or EKG | electrocardiogram |
| ED | emergency department |
| EEC | electroencephalogram |
| EGD | esophagogastroduodenoscopy |
| elix | elixir |
| EMG | electromyogram |
| EMR | electronic medical record |
| ENG | electronystagmography |
| EPC | electronic pain control |
| EPHI | electronic protected health information |
| EPS | electrophysiologic study |
| ER | emergency room |
| ERCP | endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography |
| ES | electrical stimulation |
| ESR | erythrocyte sedimentation rate |
| ESRD | end-stage renal disease |
| ET | endotracheal tube |
| ETS | elevated toilet seat |
| F | Fahrenheit |
| FBS | fasting blood sugar |
| Fe | iron |
| FF | force fluids |
| FFP | fresh frozen plasma |
| fib | fibrinogen |
| FPG | fasting plasma glucose (chemistry) |
| FS | full strength; frozen section |
| 5-FU | 5-fluorouracil |
| F/U | follow-up |
| FWB | full weight bearing |
| FWW | front wheel walker |
| Fx, fx | fracture |
| G, gm, g | gram |
| GB | gallbladder |
| GI | gastrointestinal |
| glue | glucose |
| gr | grain |
| GTT | glucose tolerance test |
| gtt(s) | drop(s) |
| Gyn | gynecology |
| h, hr, hrs | hour/s |
| h or (H) | hypodermic |
| HA | heated aerosol |
| H/A | headache |
| HBOT | hyperbaric O2 therapy |
| HBsAg | hepatitis B surface antigen |
| HBV | hepatitis B virus |
| hCG | human chorionic gonadotropin |
| hct | hematocrit |
| HCTZ | hydrochlorothiazide |
| HCV | hepatitis C virus |
| HD | hemodialysis |
| HDL | high-density lipoprotein |
| hgb | hemoglobin |
| H&H | hemoglobin and hematocrit |
| HIMS | health information management system |
| HIPAA | Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act |
| HIV | human immunodeficiency virus |
| HIVB24Ag | human immunodeficiency virus antigen screen (serology) |
| HL or hep-lock | heparin lock |
| HMO | health maintenance organization |
| HNP | herniated nucleus pulposus |
| HO | house officer |
| h/o | history of |
| H2O | water |
| H2O2 | hydrogen peroxide |
| HOB | head of bed |
| H&P | history and physical |
| HP | hot pack |
| hs | bedtime |
| HSV | herpes simplex virus |
| HUC | health unit coordinator; health unit clerk |
| HUS | health unit secretary |
| Hx | history |
| ICD | implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; International Classification of Diseases |
| ICU | intensive care unit |
| ID labels | identification labels |
| IIHI | individually identifiable health information |
| IM | intramuscular |
| I&O | intake and output |
| IPG | impedance plethysmography |
| IPPB | intermittent positive-pressure breathing |
| irrig | irrigate |
| IS | incentive spirometry |
| ISOM | isometric |
| IV | intravenous |
| IVDU | intravenous drug user |
| IVF | intravenous fluids |
| IVP | intravenous pyelogram |
| IVPB | intravenous piggyback |
| IVU | intravenous urogram |
| K | potassium |
| KG | potassium chloride |
| kg | kilogram |
| KO or KVO | keep open / keep vein open |
| KUB | kidneys, ureters, and bladder |
| L | liter |
| lat | lateral |
| lb, | |
| L&D | labor and delivery |
| LDL | low-density lipoprotein |
| LE | lower extremity |
| liq | liquid |
| LLE | left lower extremity |
| LLL | left lower lobe |
| LLQ | left lower quadrant |
| L/min | liters per minute |
| LOC | laxative of choice; leave on chart; level of consciousness; loss of consciousness |
| LP | lumbar puncture |
| LPN | licensed practical nurse |
| LR | lactated Ringer's solution |
| L&S | liver and spleen |
| LS | lumbosacral |
| Lt | left |
| LTC | long-term care |
| LUE | left upper extremity |
| LUL | left upper lobe |
| LUQ | left upper quadrant |
| lytes or e-lytes | electrolytes |
| MAR | medication administration record |
| MD | doctor of medicine |
| MDI | metered-dose inhaler |
| Med | medical |
| mEq | milliequivalent |
| mets | metastasis |
| u,g, meg | microgram |
| mg | milligram |
| Mg or Mg+ | magnesium |
| MgSO | magnesium sulfate |
| MI | myocardial infarction |
| MICU | medical intensive care unit |
| min | minute |
| mL | milliliter |
| MN | midnight |
| MOM | Milk of Magnesia |
| MR | may repeat |
| MRI | magnetic resonance imaging |
| MRSA | methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus |
| MSO4 or MS | morphine sulfate |
| MSSU | medical short-stay unit |
| Na or Na+ | sodium |
| NAHUC | National Association of Health Unit Coordinators |
| NAS | no added salt |
| NCS | nerve conduction study |
| nec | necessary |
| Neuro | neurology |
| NG | nasogastric |
| NICU | neonatal intensive care unit |
| NINP | no information, no publication |
| NKA | no known allergies |
| NKDA | no known drug allergies |
| NKFA | no known food allergies |
| NKMA | no known medication allergies |
| nh3 | ammonia |
| noc | night |
| non rep | do not repeat |
| NP | nasopharynx |
| NPO | nothing by mouth |
| NS | normal saline |
| NSA | no salt added |
| NTG | nitroglycerin |
| N/V | nausea and vomiting |
| NVS or neuro s | neurologic vital signs or checks |
| NWB | non-weight bearing |
| O2 | oxygen |
| OB | obstetrics |
| OBS | observation |
| OCG | oral cholecystogram |
| OD | right eye |
| OOB | out of bed |
| O&P | ova and parasites |
| OPS | outpatient surgery |
| OR | operating room |
| ORE | oil-retention enema |
| ORIF | open reduction, internal fixation |
| Ortho | orthopedics |
| OS | left eye |
| OSA | obstructive sleep apnea |
| OSHA | Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
| OSMO | osmolality |
| OT | occupational therapy |
| OTC | over-the-counter |
| OU | both eyes |
| oz | ounce |
| p (with line above) | after |
| P | pulse |
| PA | posteroanterior |
| PACS | Picture Archiving and Communication Systems |
| PACU | postanesthesia care unit |
| PAP | prostatic acid phosphatase |
| PAS | pulsatile antiembolism stockings |
| PBZ | pyribenzamine |
| PC | personal computer; packed cell |
| pc | after meals |
| PCA | patient-controlled analgesia |
| PCN | penicillin |
| PCP | primary care physician |
| PCT | patient care technician |
| PCV | packed-cell volume (hematology; same as hematocrit) |
| PCXR | portable chest X-ray |
| PD | peritoneal dialysis |
| PDPV | postural drainage, percussion, and vibration |
| PDR | Physicians' Desk Reference |
| Peds | pediatrics |
| PEEP | positive end-expiratory pressure |
| PEG | percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy |
| PEP | positive expiratory pressure |
| PET | positron emission tomography |
| pH | hydrogen ion concentration (acidity) |
| PHI | protected health information reference |
| PICC | peripherally inserted central catheter |
| PICU | pediatric intensive care unit |
| PID | pelvic inflammatory disease |
| PKU | phenylketonuria (chemistry) |
| P.M. | evening, night |
| PO | by mouth, or postoperative |
| P04 or phos | phosphate or phosphorus (chemistry) |
| POCT or PCT | point-of-care testing |
| Postop, postop | after surgery |
| PP | postpartum |
| pp | postprandial (after meals) |
| P&PD | percussion and postural drainage |
| PPE | personal protective equipment |
| PPO | preferred provider organization |
| pr | per rectum |
| Preop, preop | before surgery |
| prn | whenever necessary |
| PROM | passive range of motion |
| PSA | patient support associate; prostate-specific antigen |
| Psych | psychiatry |
| PT | physical therapy; prothrombin time |
| Pt | patient |
| PTA | physical therapy assistant |
| PTCA | percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty |
| PTHC or PTC | percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography |
| PIT or APTT | partial thromboplastin time or activated partial thromboplastin time |
| PWB | partial weight bearing |
| q | every |
| qd | every day; daily |
| qh | every hour (or fill in hour [e.g., q4h]) |
| qid | four times a day |
| qns | quantity not sufficient |
| qod | every other day |
| R | rectal |
| RA | room air |
| R*A*C*E | Rescue individuals in danger; Alarm—sound the alarm; Confine the fire by closing all doors and windows; Extinguish the fire with the nearest suitable fire extinguisher |
| RBC | red blood cell |
| RBS | random blood sugar |
| RD | registered dietitian |
| ROW | red cell distribution width |
| reg | regular |
| Retics | reticulocytes (hematology) |
| RIS | radiology information system |
| RL | Ringer's lactate |
| RLE | right lower extremity |
| RLL | right lower lobe |
| RLQ | right lower quadrant |
| R&M | routine and microscopic |
| RML | right middle lobe |
| RN | registered nurse |
| R/0 | rule out |
| ROM | range of motion |
| Rout | routine |
| RPR | rapid plasmin reagin |
| RR | recovery room; respiratory rate |
| RSV | respiratory syncytial virus |
| RT | respiratory therapist |
| Rt | routine |
| rt or ® | right |
| RUE | right upper extremity |
| RUL | right upper lobe |
| RUQ | right upper quadrant |
| Rx | take (e.g., treatment, medication) |
| s (with line above) | without |
| ss | semis (one-half) |
| S&A | sugar and acetone (urinalysis) |
| SAD | save a day |
| SaO2 or O2 sats | oxygen saturation |
| SBFT | small bowel follow-through |
| SBO | small bowel obstruction |
| SBU | small business unit |
| SC, sq, or sub-q | subcutaneous |
| SCO | sequential compression device |
| SDS | same-day surgery |
| SEP | somatosensory evoked potential |
| SHUC | student health unit coordinator |
| SICU | surgical intensive care unit |
| SIDS | sudden infant death syndrome |
| SL | sublingual |
| SNAT | suspected nonaccidental trauma |
| SNF | skilled nursing facility |
| SO4 | sulfate |
| SOB | shortness of breath |
| sol'n | solution |
| SOS | if needed (one dose only) |
| SR | slow release |
| SSE | soap suds enema |
| SSU | short-stay unit |
| st | straight |
| stat | immediately |
| STM | soft tissue massage |
| subling, SL | sublingual (under the tongue) |
| supp | suppository |
| Surg | surgery |
| SVN | small volume nebulizer |
| syr | syrup |
| T3,T4,T7 | thyroid tests |
| T&A | tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy |
| tab | tablet |
| TAH | total abdominal hysterectomy |
| TB | tuberculosis |
| TBD | to be done |
| TBT | template bleeding time |
| T&C or T&X-match | type and crossmatch |
| TCDB | turn, cough, deep breathe |
| TCT or TT | thrombin clotting time or thrombin time |
| TDWB | touchdown weight bearing |
| Ted | antiembolism stockings |
| temp | temperature |
| TENS | transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation |
| THR or THA | total hip replacement/total hip arthroplasty |
| TIA | transient ischemic attack |
| TIBC | total iron-binding capacity (chemistry) |
| TICU | trauma intensive care unit |
| tid | three times a day |
| Timed Specimen | to be drawn at specified time |
| tinct or tr | tincture |
| TJC | The Joint Commission |
| TKO | to keep open |
| TKR or TKA | total knee replacement/total knee arthroplasty |
| TPN | total parenteral nutrition |
| TPR | temperature, pulse, respiration |
| TRA | to run at |
| Trig or TG | triglycerides (chemistry) |
| T&S | type and screen |
| TSH | thyroid-stimulating hormone |
| T/stat | timed stat |
| TT | tilt table |
| TTOT | transtracheal oxygen therapy |
| TTWB | toe-touch weight bearing |
| TUR | transurethral resection |
| TWE | tap water enema |
| Tx | traction or treatment |
| u | unit |
| UA or U/A | urinalysis |
| UC | urine culture |
| UCR | usual, customary, and reasonable |
| UD | unit dose |
| UGI | upper gastrointestinal |
| ung | unguent (ointment) |
| US | ultrasound |
| USN | ultrasonic nebulizer |
| VAD | venous access device |
| VDRL | Venereal Disease Research Laboratories |
| VDT | video display terminal |
| VEP | visual evoked potential |
| vib & perc | vibration and percussion |
| VMA | vanillylmandelic acid |
| VNS | visiting nurse service |
| VS | vital sign |
| WA or W/A | while awake |
| WBAT | weight bearing as tolerated |
| WBC | white blood cell |
| WHO | World Health Organization |
| wk | week |
| WNL | within normal limits |
| WP | whirlpool |
| wt | weight |
| WWW | World Wide Web |
| X-match | crossmatch |
| Zn | zinc |
| > | greater than |
| < | less than |
| ↑ | increase or above |
| / | per or by |
| Δ | change |
| @ | at |
| ↓ | decrease or below |
| ̊ | degree or hour |
| A | apical |
| AA | active assisted |
| A&A | arthroscopy and arthrotomy |
| ā | before |
| åå | of each |
| AAROM | active-assistive range of motion |
| Ab | antibody |
| abd | abdominal |
| ABG | arterial blood gas |
| ABR | absolute bed rest |
| Ac | before meals |
| ACL | anterior cruciate ligament repair |
| AD | right ear |
| ADA | American Diabetic Association |
| ADE | adverse drug event |
| ADH | antidiuretic hormone (chemistry) |
| ADL | activity(ies) of daily living |
| ad lib | as desired |
| A-drive | floppy drive |
| ADS | adult distress syndrome |
| ADT Log Book | a book used to record all admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit |
| ADT Sheet | a form used to record admissions, discharges, and transfers on a nursing unit for each day |
| AE | antiembolism |
| AFB | acid-fast bacillus |
| Ag | antigen |
| AHA | American Heart Association |
| AIDS | acquired immunodeficiency syndrome |
| AKA | above the knee amputation |
| ALP or alk phos | alkaline phosphatase (chemistry) |
| A.M. | morning |
| AMA | against medical advice |
| amb | ambulate |
| AMO | against medical orders |
| amp | ampule |
| ANA | American Nurses Association; antinuclear antibody (serology) |
| ANCC | American Nurses Credentialing Center |
| A&O | alert and oriented |
| AP | anteroposterior |
| A&P repair | anterior and posterior colporraphy |
| A&P resection | abdominoperineal resection |
| appt | appointment |
| APS | Adult Protective Services |
| ARC | AIDS-related complex |
| ARDS | acute (adult) respiratory distress syndrome |
| AROM | active range of motion |
| AS | left ear |
| ASA | acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) |
| ASAP | as soon as possible |
| as tol | as tolerated |
| AU | both ears |
| AV fistula | arteriovenous fistula |
| AV shunt | atrial/ventricular shunt |
| ax | axillary |
| BAER or AER | brainstem auditory response |
| BC | blood culture |
| BCOC | bowel care of choice |
| BE | barium enema |
| BIBA | brought in by ambulance |
| bid | twice a day |
| bili | bilirubin |
| BiPap | bilevel positive airway pressure |
| BiW, biw | twice a week |
| BKA | below the knee amputation |
| B/L | bilateral |
| BLE | both lower extremities |
| BM | bowel movement |
| BMI | body mass index |
| BMP | basic metabolic panel |
| BNP | brain natriuretic peptide |
| BP | blood pressure |
| BR | bed rest |
| BRP | bathroom privileges |
| BS | blood sugar |
| BSC | bedside commode |
| BUE | both upper extremities |
| BUN | blood urea nitrogen |
| Bx | biopsy |
| c (with line above) | with |
| C | Celsius |
| Ca | cancer |
| Ca+ | calcium |
| CABG | coronary artery bypass graft |
| CAD | coronary artery disease |
| cal | calorie |
| cap | capsule |
| CAT | computed axial tomography |
| cath | catheterize |
| CBC | complete blood cell count |
| CBG | capillary blood gas |
| CBI | continuous bladder irrigation |
| CBR | continuous bed rest |
| cc or cm3 | cubic centimeter |
| CC, creat cl, or cr cl | creatinine clearance (chemistry) |
| CCM | certified case manager |
| ccu | coronary care unit |
| CDC | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| C-drive | hard drive stored inside the computer |
| CDSS | clinical decision support system/s |
| CE | covered entities |
| CEA | carcinoembryonic antigen (special chemistry) |
| CEO | chief executive officer |
| CFO | chief financial officer |
| CHF | congestive heart failure |
| CHO | carbohydrate |
| chol | cholesterol |
| CHUC | certified health unit coordinator |
| CI | clinical indication |
| cl or CL | clear; chloride (chemistry) |
| cm | centimeter |
| CMP | comprehensive metabolic panel |
| CMS | circulation, motion, sensation |
| CMT | cardiac monitor technician |
| CMV | cytomegalovirus |
| CNA | certified nursing assistant |
| c/o | complained of |
| CO2 | carbon dioxide |
| COA or C of A | condition of admission |
| comp or cmpd | compound |
| con't | continue |
| COO | chief operating officer |
| COPD | chronic obstructive pulmonary disease |
| COW | computer on wheels |
| CP | cold pack |
| CPAP | continuous positive airway pressure |
| CPK or CK | creatine phosphokinase or creatine kinase (chemistry) |
| CPM | continuous passive motion |
| CPOE | computer physician order entry |
| CPR | cardiopulmonary resuscitation |
| CPS | Child Protective Services |
| CPT | chest physical therapy |
| CPU | central processing unit |
| CPZ | Compazine |
| CQI | continuous quality improvement |
| C&S | culture and sensitivity |
| CSF | cerebrospinal fluid |
| CT | computed tomography |
| CVA | cerebrovascular accident |
| CVC | central venous catheter |
| CVICU | cardiovascular intensive critical care unit |
| CVP | central venous pressure |
| Cx | culture |
| CXR | chest X-ray |
| D or E drive | drive/s to read CDs or DVDs |
| DAT | diet as tolerated; direct antiglobulin test |
| D/C or DC | discontinue or discharge |
| Diff | differential |
| Dig | digoxin |
| Disch | discharge |
| D/LR | dextrose in lactated Ringer's solution |
| DME | durable medical equipment |
| DMS | document management system |
| DNR | do not resuscitate |
| D/NS | dextrose in normal saline |
| DO | doctor of osteopathy |
| DOA | dead on arrival |
| DPI | dry powder inhaler |
| dr | dram |
| DRG | diagnosis-related group |
| D/RL | dextrose in Ringer's lactate |
| DSA | digital subtraction angiography |
| DSS | dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Colace) |
| DSU | day surgery unit |
| D/W | dextrose in water |
| DW | distilled water |
| D5W | 5% dextrose in water |
| D10W | 10% dextrose in water |
| Dx | diagnosis |
| EBV | Epstein-Barr virus |
| EC | enteric coated |
| ECF | extended care facility |
| ECG or EKG | electrocardiogram |
| ED | emergency department |
| EEC | electroencephalogram |
| EGD | esophagogastroduodenoscopy |
| elix | elixir |
| EMG | electromyogram |
| EMR | electronic medical record |
| ENG | electronystagmography |
| EPC | electronic pain control |
| EPHI | electronic protected health information |
| EPS | electrophysiologic study |
| ER | emergency room |
| ERCP | endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography |
| ES | electrical stimulation |
| ESR | erythrocyte sedimentation rate |
| ESRD | end-stage renal disease |
| ET | endotracheal tube |
| ETS | elevated toilet seat |
| F | Fahrenheit |
| FBS | fasting blood sugar |
| Fe | iron |
| FF | force fluids |
| FFP | fresh frozen plasma |
| fib | fibrinogen |
| FPG | fasting plasma glucose (chemistry) |
| FS | full strength; frozen section |
| 5-FU | 5-fluorouracil |
| F/U | follow-up |
| FWB | full weight bearing |
| FWW | front wheel walker |
| Fx, fx | fracture |
| G, gm, g | gram |
| GB | gallbladder |
| GI | gastrointestinal |
| glue | glucose |
| gr | grain |
| GTT | glucose tolerance test |
| gtt(s) | drop(s) |
| Gyn | gynecology |
| h, hr, hrs | hour/s |
| h or (H) | hypodermic |
| HA | heated aerosol |
| H/A | headache |
| HBOT | hyperbaric O2 therapy |
| HBsAg | hepatitis B surface antigen |
| HBV | hepatitis B virus |
| hCG | human chorionic gonadotropin |
| hct | hematocrit |
| HCTZ | hydrochlorothiazide |
| HCV | hepatitis C virus |
| HD | hemodialysis |
| HDL | high-density lipoprotein |
| hgb | hemoglobin |
| H&H | hemoglobin and hematocrit |
| HIMS | health information management system |
| HIPAA | Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act |
| HIV | human immunodeficiency virus |
| HIVB24Ag | human immunodeficiency virus antigen screen (serology) |
| HL or hep-lock | heparin lock |
| HMO | health maintenance organization |
| HNP | herniated nucleus pulposus |
| HO | house officer |
| h/o | history of |
| H2O | water |
| H2O2 | hydrogen peroxide |
| HOB | head of bed |
| H&P | history and physical |
| HP | hot pack |
| hs | bedtime |
| HSV | herpes simplex virus |
| HUC | health unit coordinator; health unit clerk |
| HUS | health unit secretary |
| Hx | history |
| ICD | implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; International Classification of Diseases |
| ICU | intensive care unit |
| ID labels | identification labels |
| IIHI | individually identifiable health information |
| IM | intramuscular |
| I&O | intake and output |
| IPG | impedance plethysmography |
| IPPB | intermittent positive-pressure breathing |
| irrig | irrigate |
| IS | incentive spirometry |
| ISOM | isometric |
| IV | intravenous |
| IVDU | intravenous drug user |
| IVF | intravenous fluids |
| IVP | intravenous pyelogram |
| IVPB | intravenous piggyback |
| IVU | intravenous urogram |
| K | potassium |
| KG | potassium chloride |
| kg | kilogram |
| KO or KVO | keep open / keep vein open |
| KUB | kidneys, ureters, and bladder |
| L | liter |
| lat | lateral |
| lb, | |
| L&D | labor and delivery |
| LDL | low-density lipoprotein |
| LE | lower extremity |
| liq | liquid |
| LLE | left lower extremity |
| LLL | left lower lobe |
| LLQ | left lower quadrant |
| L/min | liters per minute |
| LOC | laxative of choice; leave on chart; level of consciousness; loss of consciousness |
| LP | lumbar puncture |
| LPN | licensed practical nurse |
| LR | lactated Ringer's solution |
| L&S | liver and spleen |
| LS | lumbosacral |
| Lt | left |
| LTC | long-term care |
| LUE | left upper extremity |
| LUL | left upper lobe |
| LUQ | left upper quadrant |
| lytes or e-lytes | electrolytes |
| MAR | medication administration record |
| MD | doctor of medicine |
| MDI | metered-dose inhaler |
| Med | medical |
| mEq | milliequivalent |
| mets | metastasis |
| u,g, meg | microgram |
| mg | milligram |
| Mg or Mg+ | magnesium |
| MgSO | magnesium sulfate |
| MI | myocardial infarction |
| MICU | medical intensive care unit |
| min | minute |
| mL | milliliter |
| MN | midnight |
| MOM | Milk of Magnesia |
| MR | may repeat |
| MRI | magnetic resonance imaging |
| MRSA | methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus |
| MSO4 or MS | morphine sulfate |
| MSSU | medical short-stay unit |
| Na or Na+ | sodium |
| NAHUC | National Association of Health Unit Coordinators |
| NAS | no added salt |
| NCS | nerve conduction study |
| nec | necessary |
| Neuro | neurology |
| NG | nasogastric |
| NICU | neonatal intensive care unit |
| NINP | no information, no publication |
| NKA | no known allergies |
| NKDA | no known drug allergies |
| NKFA | no known food allergies |
| NKMA | no known medication allergies |
| nh3 | ammonia |
| noc | night |
| non rep | do not repeat |
| NP | nasopharynx |
| NPO | nothing by mouth |
| NS | normal saline |
| NSA | no salt added |
| NTG | nitroglycerin |
| N/V | nausea and vomiting |
| NVS or neuro s | neurologic vital signs or checks |
| NWB | non-weight bearing |
| O2 | oxygen |
| OB | obstetrics |
| OBS | observation |
| OCG | oral cholecystogram |
| OD | right eye |
| OOB | out of bed |
| O&P | ova and parasites |
| OPS | outpatient surgery |
| OR | operating room |
| ORE | oil-retention enema |
| ORIF | open reduction, internal fixation |
| Ortho | orthopedics |
| OS | left eye |
| OSA | obstructive sleep apnea |
| OSHA | Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
| OSMO | osmolality |
| OT | occupational therapy |
| OTC | over-the-counter |
| OU | both eyes |
| oz | ounce |
| p (with line above) | after |
| P | pulse |
| PA | posteroanterior |
| PACS | Picture Archiving and Communication Systems |
| PACU | postanesthesia care unit |
| PAP | prostatic acid phosphatase |
| PAS | pulsatile antiembolism stockings |
| PBZ | pyribenzamine |
| PC | personal computer; packed cell |
| pc | after meals |
| PCA | patient-controlled analgesia |
| PCN | penicillin |
| PCP | primary care physician |
| PCT | patient care technician |
| PCV | packed-cell volume (hematology; same as hematocrit) |
| PCXR | portable chest X-ray |
| PD | peritoneal dialysis |
| PDPV | postural drainage, percussion, and vibration |
| PDR | Physicians' Desk Reference |
| Peds | pediatrics |
| PEEP | positive end-expiratory pressure |
| PEG | percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy |
| PEP | positive expiratory pressure |
| PET | positron emission tomography |
| pH | hydrogen ion concentration (acidity) |
| PHI | protected health information reference |
| PICC | peripherally inserted central catheter |
| PICU | pediatric intensive care unit |
| PID | pelvic inflammatory disease |
| PKU | phenylketonuria (chemistry) |
| P.M. | evening, night |
| PO | by mouth, or postoperative |
| P04 or phos | phosphate or phosphorus (chemistry) |
| POCT or PCT | point-of-care testing |
| Postop, postop | after surgery |
| PP | postpartum |
| pp | postprandial (after meals) |
| P&PD | percussion and postural drainage |
| PPE | personal protective equipment |
| PPO | preferred provider organization |
| pr | per rectum |
| Preop, preop | before surgery |
| prn | whenever necessary |
| PROM | passive range of motion |
| PSA | patient support associate; prostate-specific antigen |
| Psych | psychiatry |
| PT | physical therapy; prothrombin time |
| Pt | patient |
| PTA | physical therapy assistant |
| PTCA | percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty |
| PTHC or PTC | percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography |
| PIT or APTT | partial thromboplastin time or activated partial thromboplastin time |
| PWB | partial weight bearing |
| q | every |
| qd | every day; daily |
| qh | every hour (or fill in hour [e.g., q4h]) |
| qid | four times a day |
| qns | quantity not sufficient |
| qod | every other day |
| R | rectal |
| RA | room air |
| R*A*C*E | Rescue individuals in danger; Alarm—sound the alarm; Confine the fire by closing all doors and windows; Extinguish the fire with the nearest suitable fire extinguisher |
| RBC | red blood cell |
| RBS | random blood sugar |
| RD | registered dietitian |
| ROW | red cell distribution width |
| reg | regular |
| Retics | reticulocytes (hematology) |
| RIS | radiology information system |
| RL | Ringer's lactate |
| RLE | right lower extremity |
| RLL | right lower lobe |
| RLQ | right lower quadrant |
| R&M | routine and microscopic |
| RML | right middle lobe |
| RN | registered nurse |
| R/0 | rule out |
| ROM | range of motion |
| Rout | routine |
| RPR | rapid plasmin reagin |
| RR | recovery room; respiratory rate |
| RSV | respiratory syncytial virus |
| RT | respiratory therapist |
| Rt | routine |
| rt or ® | right |
| RUE | right upper extremity |
| RUL | right upper lobe |
| RUQ | right upper quadrant |
| Rx | take (e.g., treatment, medication) |
| s (with line above) | without |
| ss | semis (one-half) |
| S&A | sugar and acetone (urinalysis) |
| SAD | save a day |
| SaO2 or O2 sats | oxygen saturation |
| SBFT | small bowel follow-through |
| SBO | small bowel obstruction |
| SBU | small business unit |
| SC, sq, or sub-q | subcutaneous |
| SCO | sequential compression device |
| SDS | same-day surgery |
| SEP | somatosensory evoked potential |
| SHUC | student health unit coordinator |
| SICU | surgical intensive care unit |
| SIDS | sudden infant death syndrome |
| SL | sublingual |
| SNAT | suspected nonaccidental trauma |
| SNF | skilled nursing facility |
| SO4 | sulfate |
| SOB | shortness of breath |
| sol'n | solution |
| SOS | if needed (one dose only) |
| SR | slow release |
| SSE | soap suds enema |
| SSU | short-stay unit |
| st | straight |
| stat | immediately |
| STM | soft tissue massage |
| subling, SL | sublingual (under the tongue) |
| supp | suppository |
| Surg | surgery |
| SVN | small volume nebulizer |
| syr | syrup |
| T3,T4,T7 | thyroid tests |
| T&A | tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy |
| tab | tablet |
| TAH | total abdominal hysterectomy |
| TB | tuberculosis |
| TBD | to be done |
| TBT | template bleeding time |
| T&C or T&X-match | type and crossmatch |
| TCDB | turn, cough, deep breathe |
| TCT or TT | thrombin clotting time or thrombin time |
| TDWB | touchdown weight bearing |
| Ted | antiembolism stockings |
| temp | temperature |
| TENS | transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation |
| THR or THA | total hip replacement/total hip arthroplasty |
| TIA | transient ischemic attack |
| TIBC | total iron-binding capacity (chemistry) |
| TICU | trauma intensive care unit |
| tid | three times a day |
| Timed Specimen | to be drawn at specified time |
| tinct or tr | tincture |
| TJC | The Joint Commission |
| TKO | to keep open |
| TKR or TKA | total knee replacement/total knee arthroplasty |
| TPN | total parenteral nutrition |
| TPR | temperature, pulse, respiration |
| TRA | to run at |
| Trig or TG | triglycerides (chemistry) |
| T&S | type and screen |
| TSH | thyroid-stimulating hormone |
| T/stat | timed stat |
| TT | tilt table |
| TTOT | transtracheal oxygen therapy |
| TTWB | toe-touch weight bearing |
| TUR | transurethral resection |
| TWE | tap water enema |
| Tx | traction or treatment |
| u | unit |
| UA or U/A | urinalysis |
| UC | urine culture |
| UCR | usual, customary, and reasonable |
| UD | unit dose |
| UGI | upper gastrointestinal |
| ung | unguent (ointment) |
| US | ultrasound |
| USN | ultrasonic nebulizer |
| VAD | venous access device |
| VDRL | Venereal Disease Research Laboratories |
| VDT | video display terminal |
| VEP | visual evoked potential |
| vib & perc | vibration and percussion |
| VMA | vanillylmandelic acid |
| VNS | visiting nurse service |
| VS | vital sign |
| WA or W/A | while awake |
| WBAT | weight bearing as tolerated |
| WBC | white blood cell |
| WHO | World Health Organization |
| wk | week |
| WNL | within normal limits |
| WP | whirlpool |
| wt | weight |
| WWW | World Wide Web |
| X-match | crossmatch |
| Zn | zinc |
Created by:
Janiceyr02
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