Decoding Doctor Prescriptions and Medical Abbreviations

This video tutorial by Tina, a nurse practitioner, explains how to read medication prescriptions. It covers the components of a prescription, including patient demographics, medication name, dosage, dispense number, instructions (sig), refills, and provider signature. The video provides examples of prescriptions for medications like amoxicillin, prednisone, meloxicam, and acetaminophen, highlighting how to interpret dosage instructions and refills. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of clear communication to prevent medication errors and concludes with a preview of the next video on medication administration routes.

What is the primary reason most providers send medication electronically?

• To save time

• To prevent medication errors

• To improve patient satisfaction

• To reduce costs

What information is included in the patient demographic section of a prescription?

• Patient's first and last name, date of birth, phone number, and address

• Patient's insurance details

• Patient's emergency contact

• Patient's medical history

What does 'sig' represent in a prescription?

• The medication's name

• The patient's instructions

• The prescriber's signature

• The number of refills

In the example of amoxicillin prescription, what does 'tid' indicate?

• Four times a day

• Once daily

• Three times a day

• Twice daily

What is the purpose of writing the number of refills as zero with a line over it?

• To indicate no refills are allowed

• To allow unlimited refills

• To indicate the prescription is expired

• To show the prescription is for emergency use only

For what condition is prednisone commonly prescribed?

• Diabetes

• Hypertension

• Lumbar radiculopathy

• Osteoarthritis

What does 'prn' mean in a prescription?

• Before meals

• Once daily

• As needed

• At bedtime

How is the medication keraphate typically dispensed?

• In suspension form

• In tablet form

• As a topical cream

• As an injection

Why might a provider write 'daily' instead of 'q d' on a prescription?

• To comply with insurance requirements

• To make it easier for the patient to understand

• To save space on the prescription

• To reduce confusion and prevent medical errors

What does 'nte' stand for in a prescription?

• Not to exceed

• Next to eat

• Need to evaluate

• No time estimate