Chris asks…
medical abbreviations?
what is the technical name of the medical abbreviations that doctors use to write on prescriptions to give to your pharmacist?
for example: b.i.d. = twice a day
Donald asks…
What are the benefits and Limitations of using medical abbreviations?
I have always been amazed at how many medical abbreviations there are. However, at the same time, I have to wonder… besides not having to write out all of those really long, hard to spell medical words, What are all of the other benefits to using abbreviations, and more so, What are the limitations of using medical abbreviations?? Does anybody out there really know the answer to these questions?
Wize Guy answers:
The benefits are the saving of time when recording data or information. However, many physicians (and even some nurses) have handwriting that is difficult to read, and abbreviations can result in misinterpretation of what was intended. For example, “MI” can mean “myocardial infarct,” but it can also mean “mitral insufficiency,” and possibly other things as well. “MS” can mean “morphine sulfate,” “multiple sclerosis,” or even “magnesium sulfate.”
Because of the confusion, the current standards for writing of orders in hospitals no longer permit the use of most of the formerly used abbreviations. The purpose is to reduce errors. Fewer errors means better medical care.
Steven asks…
What are your thoughts on medical abbreviations. Are they a good idea or bad? What are the pros and the cons?
What are your thoughts on medical abbreviations. Are they a good idea or bad? What are the pros and the cons?
Wize Guy answers:
I think they’re a good idea. Imagine doing a report on Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) and having to write that out every time.. MDMA is much less time consuming to write and say.
Donna asks…
Medical professionals only please~ What problems have you come across when dealing with medical abbreviations?
After doing a little work on a ward I came across the issue of different medical professionals using different abbreviations for procedures and diagnoses, etc. I am currently writing a paper on this and would really appreciate any examples of this or multiple abbreviations for the same thing.
Thanks
Wize Guy answers:
They are hardly used anymore, guidelines on record keeping has helped eliminate them.
Robert asks…
does anyone think getting rid of medical abbreviations will reduce mistakes?
Do you think any written policies should be developed? When do you think abbreviations are acceptable?
Wize Guy answers:
policies have been developed, in the 5 years I’ve been in healthcare a lot of abbreviations are not used anymore, especially abbreviations on doctors orders and prescriptions. I’m almost half way through nursing school and there are so many words you have to write out now to prevent mistakes. So measures have been taken and I’m sure more will in the future with the implimentation of computer charting.
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Tags: Guy answers, magnesium sulfate, limitations with using abbreviations, medical professionals, medical abbreviations, morphine sulfate, medical words, myocardial infarct, benefits of medical abbreviations, multiple sclerosisFiled under: Answer Guy
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