PSA Prescription Writing 2

Question 1

What does the Latin abbreviation 'sig' on a prescription indicate?

Accepted Answer

Directions for the patient

Answer

'Sig' (signatura) means 'write' or 'label' and introduces the directions the pharmacist should place on the medication label for the patient.

Question 2

A prescription reads 'amoxicillin 500 mg p.o. t.i.d. x 10 days.' What does 'p.o.' indicate?

Accepted Answer

By mouth

Answer

'P.o.' stands for 'per os,' the Latin phrase meaning 'by mouth,' indicating the oral route of administration.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT legally required on a valid outpatient prescription in the US?

Accepted Answer

Prescriber's DEA number for all prescriptions

Answer

A DEA number is only required on prescriptions for controlled substances, not on all outpatient prescriptions.

Question 4

What does the abbreviation 'a.c.' mean on a prescription?

Accepted Answer

Before meals

Answer

'A.c.' stands for 'ante cibum,' Latin for 'before meals,' indicating the medication should be taken prior to eating.

Question 5

A prescription for metformin 1000 mg b.i.d. instructs the patient to take the drug how many times per day?

Accepted Answer

Twice

Answer

'B.i.d.' stands for 'bis in die,' Latin for 'twice a day,' so the patient takes 1000 mg in the morning and 1000 mg in the evening.

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test