What does the abbreviation 'p.o' or 'PO' stand for in medical terms?

The abbreviation 'p.o.' or 'PO' stands for "per os," which is Latin for "by mouth." This term is commonly used in medical settings to indicate that a medication or substance should be taken orally. When a prescription or medical instruction specifies a medication to be administered p.o., it indicates that the patient should swallow the medication, allowing it to be absorbed through the digestive system. This route of administration is often preferred for its ease of use, as well as for its ability to provide a slower, more sustained release of the medication compared to other routes.

In contrast, the other options refer to alternative methods of administering medications, such as injections or inhalation, which involve different processes and routes of absorption that directly enter the bloodstream or respiratory system. Understanding these definitions helps ensure proper medication administration and patient safety.