What does 'PO' mean in prescriptions?

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Study for the Missouri State CMT Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam with these resources!

Multiple Choice

What does 'PO' mean in prescriptions?

Explanation:
In prescriptions, PO means by mouth. It comes from the Latin phrase per os, literally “by mouth,” and it indicates the medication should be taken orally—swallowed as a tablet, capsule, or liquid to be absorbed through the digestive tract. This contrasts with other routes like rectal (per rectum), inhaled, or topical (applied to the skin). Some settings prefer spelling out “by mouth” to avoid misreading, but PO is a standard shorthand for oral administration.

In prescriptions, PO means by mouth. It comes from the Latin phrase per os, literally “by mouth,” and it indicates the medication should be taken orally—swallowed as a tablet, capsule, or liquid to be absorbed through the digestive tract. This contrasts with other routes like rectal (per rectum), inhaled, or topical (applied to the skin). Some settings prefer spelling out “by mouth” to avoid misreading, but PO is a standard shorthand for oral administration.

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