What does the abbreviation PO signify in medication administration?

The abbreviation PO stands for "per os," which is a Latin term that translates to "by mouth." This indicates that the medication should be taken orally and absorbed through the digestive system. Oral administration is a common route for delivering medications because it is generally convenient, non-invasive, and can be easier for patients to manage themselves compared to other methods such as injections or intravenous administration.

When medications are given by mouth, they often come in forms such as tablets, capsules, or liquid solutions. It’s important to understand and recognize this abbreviation as it is critical for ensuring proper medication administration and patient compliance. This knowledge is essential for pharmacy technicians and healthcare providers to effectively communicate and understand medication orders.

In contrast, the other options refer to different routes of administration. Inhalation involves delivering the medication through the respiratory tract, intravenous specifically refers to medications administered directly into a vein, and injection typically means that a substance is delivered into the body with a syringe, whether it be intramuscular, subcutaneous, or otherwise. Each route of administration has its own applications, preferred scenarios, and implications for patient care.