Abbreviations and Acronyms: The Language of Nursing Students in Medical Terminology
Nursing students often use various abbreviations and acronyms to refer to different medical terms and procedures. Here are some commonly used alphabetical full forms in the field of nursing:
A&P – Anatomy and Physiology
ABG – Arterial Blood Gas
ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support
ADL – Activities of Daily Living
AED – Automated External Defibrillator
AP – Anteroposterior
ARDS – Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
BLS – Basic Life Support
B/P – Blood Pressure
CABG – Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
CAD – Coronary Artery Disease
CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
CVA – Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke)
DC – Discharge
DM – Diabetes Mellitus
DOA – Dead on Arrival
ECG/EKG – Electrocardiogram
ED – Emergency Department
ENT – Ear, Nose, and Throat
FBS – Fasting Blood Sugar
GERD – Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
GI – Gastrointestinal
GTT – Glucose Tolerance Test
HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus
ICU – Intensive Care Unit
IV – Intravenous
LMP – Last Menstrual Period
LOC – Level of Consciousness
MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging
NPO – Nothing by Mouth
OB – Obstetrics
OT – Occupational Therapy
PT – Physical Therapy
RBC – Red Blood Cell
RN – Registered Nurse
TIA – Transient Ischemic Attack
UTI – Urinary Tract Infection
WBC – White Blood Cell
Please note that these acronyms may vary depending on the context and region, and it’s always important to confirm the meaning and usage with your instructors or healthcare professionals.
From A to Z: The Essential Short Forms Every Medical Student Should Know