Certified Medication Aide Practice

What does the abbreviation "po" stand for in medication administration?

1. After noon

2. Before meals

3. Both eyes

4. By mouth

The correct answer is: By mouth

This abbreviation, "po," is derived from the Latin word "per os" which translates to "by mouth." It is commonly used to indicate that a medication should be taken orally. Options A, B, and C are all incorrect as they refer to other abbreviations commonly used in medication administration "pc" stands for "after meals," "ac" stands for "before meals," and "ou" stands for "both eyes." These abbreviations are used to indicate specific timing or administration methods, but do not refer to taking a medication by mouth. Therefore, option D is the only correct answer.