chapter 5 abbreviations and systems of measurement

Chapter 5

Abbreviations and Systems of

Measurement

Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 2

Abbreviations

• Knowledge of abbreviations and symbols is essential

• Memorize common abbreviations and symbols

• Accurate interpretation of provider’s order


Medication Orders

• Date

• Patient’s name

• Medication name

• Dosage or amount of medication

• Route or manner of administration

• Time to be administered and frequency


Prescription Blank

• Check for completeness and accuracy

• DEA registration number

• Specify number of refills


Avoiding Errors

• Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP)

• JCAHO

• Avoid use of periods

• Must be written and signed by provider

• Telephone orders differ by state


Avoiding Errors

• Question any incomplete orders

• Question orders as necessary to ensure accuracy


Legible Prescription Law

• Some states have passed legislation– Medication must be legibly printed or

typed– Quantity must be in both textual and

numerical formats– Prescriber must print name under

signature


Systems of Measurement

• Must know all three systems

• May need to convert between systems

• Apothecary system

• Metric system

• Household system


Apothecary System

• Solid Measurements– Grain– Dram– Ounce– Pound


Apothecary System

• Liquid Measurements– Minim– Fluid dram– Fluid ounce– Pint– Quart– Gallon


Approximate Equivalents – Liquid Measurements


Approximate Equivalents – Solid Measurement


Patient Education

• Speak clearly

• Observe for comprehension

• Ask them to repeat the directions

• Written clearly

• Correct measuring devices

chapter 5 abbreviations and systems of measurement

Documents

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