What does the abbreviation "PO" signify?

The abbreviation "PO" stands for "per os," a Latin term meaning "by mouth." This is used in medical and nursing contexts to specify that a medication should be taken orally. The understanding of this abbreviation is crucial for administering medications appropriately, as it indicates that the patient should ingest the drug, which allows for absorption via the gastrointestinal tract.

This is important because different routes of administration affect the bioavailability and absorption rates of medications. For instance, medications administered by injection enter directly into the bloodstream, while those taken orally must pass through the digestive system first. Knowing "PO" specifies the intended route of administration can help prevent errors in medication administration and ensure that the patient receives the correct dosage effectively.

In summary, "PO" confirms that the medication should be administered by mouth, which is essential information for both nursing practice and patient care.