What does ‘PO’ stand for in medication orders?

The term ‘PO’ stands for "per os," which is a Latin phrase meaning "by mouth." This designation is commonly used in medication orders to indicate that a drug should be administered orally, allowing it to be absorbed through the digestive system. Understanding this terminology is crucial in a pharmacy practice setting as it helps ensure that medications are given in the appropriate form for proper absorption and effectiveness.

Oral administration is one of the most common routes for medication delivery, making it important for pharmacy technicians and healthcare providers to be familiar with the abbreviation. This knowledge aids in the accurate interpretation of prescription orders and ensures patient safety when managing medication regimens.