PO is the abbreviation for which route of administration?

PO is the abbreviation for which route of administration?

• A. Oral
• B. Intramuscular
• C. Inhalation
• D. Intravenous

Answer: (A)

PO stands for per os, a Latin term meaning by mouth. This shorthand is used to indicate that the medication should be taken orally—swallowed or taken via the mouth. The other routes listed correspond to different administration methods: intramuscular is via injection into muscle, inhalation is breathed in through the lungs, and intravenous is delivered directly into a vein. Because per os explicitly means through the mouth, PO is the best indication for oral administration. If the patient cannot swallow, an alternative route would be needed, but PO itself specifically denotes oral intake.

PO stands for per os, a Latin term meaning by mouth. This shorthand is used to indicate that the medication should be taken orally—swallowed or taken via the mouth. The other routes listed correspond to different administration methods: intramuscular is via injection into muscle, inhalation is breathed in through the lungs, and intravenous is delivered directly into a vein. Because per os explicitly means through the mouth, PO is the best indication for oral administration. If the patient cannot swallow, an alternative route would be needed, but PO itself specifically denotes oral intake.