A
absorption In pharmacokinetics, the movement of a drug into the bloodstream.
activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)A blood test, measured in seconds, that indicates how long it takes for blood to clot.
addendNumbers that are added together.
ampuleA small glass container that contains a single dose of medication.
analgesicPain-relieving medication.
antiarrhythmicMedication that normalizes heart rate or rhythm.
anticoagulantA medication that decreases blood clot formation.
anxiolyticSedative or anti-anxiety medication.
apothecary systemAn antiquated system of measurement based on the weight of one grain of wheat; therefore, the base unit of weight is one grain. Use of the apothecary system has resulted in numerous medication errors, so it is currently out of favor. See Appendix B for apothecary equivalents.
B
back-prime To prime from the bottom to the top of the tubing using backflow from the primary IV solution.
bar codeA code, required by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, on the labels of all human medications and biological agents. It provides the ability to double-check a medication by both reading and scanning the code, an approach that has been demonstrated to reduce medication errors.
bar code medication administration (BCMA)A system that requires scanning the bar codes of each medication prior to administration. Scanning the label bar code serves as an additional label check.
basal insulinSynthetic human insulin that provides long-term coverage.
basal rateA slow, continuous supply. Related to insulin, it is the rate at which insulin is slowly and continuously released into the bloodstream from the pancreas or by an insulin pump.
blood glucose correction factorAlso called the insulin sensitivity factor, this is the dose of insulin required to decrease the blood glucose by 50 mg/dL and is determined by the prescriber.
body surface area (BSA)The total surface area of the body. It is a more sensitive indicator of body size than body weight as it takes into account both height and weight.
BSA-based dosingMedication dosing that varies according to body surface area; assumes that drug dose parameters increase in proportion with increasing body size.
buccalPertaining to the cheek or mouth; buccal tablets are medications that are placed between the gum and cheek as they are designed to dissolve through the mucous membranes of the mouth to rapidly enter the bloodstream.
C
calibrated spoon A device calibrated in 2.5 mL increments and fractional teaspoons that has a capacity of 10 mL; designed for pediatric medication administration.
calibrationLines on equipment that represent a specific unit of measurement.
caloric requirementThe number of calories needed to meet energy needs and sustain growth.
calorieA unit of energy used to fuel the body.
cannulaA tube inserted into the body used to administer or remove fluids.
capletAn oval-shaped tablet with a smooth coating to make it tamper resistant.
capsuleAn oval or round gelatinous container filled with powder or liquid medication.
carbohydrateOne of the three main nutrients that supply energy for the body; manufactured by plants, they are a major source of fuel for the body.
carbohydrate insulin doseThe amount of insulin required to dispose of the total number of carbohydrates (in grams) in the meal.
cartridgeA device that is prefilled with a typical single dose of medication.
CASE approachAn acronym for the four steps of safe dosage calculation: (1)
C
onvert to like units of measurement, (2)A
pproximate the amount to administer, (3)S
olve the equation for the dosage calculation, and (4)E
valuate your work by checking the dosage calculation against the approximated amount.Celsius scaleA temperature scale, named after Anders Celsius, in which 0 degrees is freezing and 100 degrees is boiling. Also known as centigrade scale.
centigradeLiterally means 100 (centi) grades or gradients. Refers to the Celsius scale.
central lineAn IV catheter that terminates in the great vessels (inferior or superior vena cava, or right atrium). Central lines allow for greater dilution of the IV solution as it enters the body. Certain central lines, such as PICC lines or porta-caths, are used for long–term IV infusions, and can be managed in outpatient or homecare settings.
combination medicationA combination of two or more medications in one dosage form.
complex carbohydrateA type of carbohydrate that includes starches and is found in grains, cereals, pastas, vegetables, and fruits.
complex fractionA fraction in which the numerator and/or the denominator is a fraction. For example:
Fraction reads, 1 over 2 all over 1 whole 1 over 4, 3 over 5 all over 2, 1 all over 2 over 3.
concentrationThe amount of medication per dosage unit; also known as dosage strength, strength, or supply.
control numberA number that is a universal product identifier for human drugs; also known as a National Drug Code (NDC).
controlled substanceA drug whose manufacturing or possession is regulated by the federal government because of its potential for abuse.
controlled substance scheduleDifferentiates controlled substances into five categories according to their potential for abuse or addiction, from Schedule I (substances with the most potential for abuse or addiction with no medicinal benefit, such as heroin) to Schedule V (substances with the lowest potential for abuse or addiction, typically a combination medication in which the addictive substance has low dosage strength, such as some cold medications that contain a small amount of codeine).
controllersRegulators. As it relates to IVs, a manually set, metered device that regulates the rate of intravenous infusions. For example, a dial-a-flow.
conversion factor methodA method of converting known quantities to an unknown value by multiplying the known amount by known conversions factors (equivalencies); also known as dimensional analysis.
correction insulinInsulin administered to correct existing high blood glucose from food or other causes such as some medications or illnesses.
creatinine clearanceThe rate at which creatinine, a byproduct of muscle metabolism, is cleared or filtered by the kidneys and is thereby decreased as a normal part of the aging process.
cross-multiplicationMultiplying the numerator of one fraction by the denominator of the other fraction. The product of the numerator of the first fraction and the denominator of the second fraction is equal to the product of the numerator of the second fraction and the denominator of the first fraction when the fractions are equivalent.
D
daily fluid requirement (DFR) The amount of fluid a patient needs to maintain normal hydration; also called maintenance fluids.
decimalFractions with a denominator that is a multiple of ten (e.g., 0.1 = one-tenth). The decimal point separates a whole number from the fraction. The whole number is placed to the left of the decimal point, and the fraction (quantity ending in th) is placed to the right of the decimal point. Also known as decimal fractions.
denominatorThe part of a fraction that represents that number of equal parts that make up a whole; the number below the division sign in a fraction.
diluentA diluting agent; a liquid mixed with a medication in order to reduce the amount (strength) of the medication in the solution.
dimensional analysisA way to convert amounts by multiplying the given (known) by the appropriate conversion factor/s (equivalencies); also known as the conversion factor method. For example, to determine the number of seconds in 1 week:
Calculation reads, x seconds per week equals 60 seconds over 1 minute times 60 minutes over 1 hour times 24 hours over 1 day times 7 days over 1 week equals 604,800 seconds per week. Note: In both the numerator and the denominator minutes, hours, and days are cancelled each other.
distal portThe port farthest from the insertion site (point at which the device enters the patient); this is commonly the connection point for the secondary line used for the infusion of intravenous piggyback medication.
distributionThe movement of a medication into body tissues and fluids.
dividendThe fraction or number being divided. In a linear equation, the first number (the dividend) is divided by the second number (divisor).
divisorThe number the dividend is being divided by. In a linear equation, the first number (dividend) is divided by the second number (the divisor).
dosage strengthThe amount of medication per dosage unit; also referred to as the strength, concentration, or supply. The dosage strength is a ratio or fraction. It is the supply dose/dosage unit or supply dose:dosage unit.
dosage unitRefers to the quantity of solid or liquid in which the supplied dose is contained.
drop factorA number based on the size or calibration of the drop that falls in the drip chamber; also known as the drip factor.
dropperA device used to deliver small quantities of liquid medication.
durationA length of time. Related to medication, it is the length of time the effect of a medication lasts, such as the effect from a dose of insulin.
E
eccentric Off center. An eccentric tip; describes an off-center tip for an oral syringe that distinguishes it from a syringe to be used for injections.
electronic medication administration record (eMAR)Legal records found in a patient's electronic medical record that give information about medication orders and their times for administration.
eliminationRemoval. As it pertains to medication, the movement of a medication out of the body.
elixirA liquid that contains water, alcohol, and a sweetener.
enteralGastrointestinal. Refers to medication given through the gastrointestinal tract, including drugs given both orally and through a tube into the stomach or intestines.
enteric-coatedEnteric-coated tablets have an outer coating designed to withstand gastric juice, causing the tablet to pass through the stomach and dissolve in the small intestine.
extravasationLeakage of IV fluid from a blood vessel into the surrounding tissue.
F
Fahrenheit scale A measurement of temperature that is calibrated with 212 degrees. Water has a freezing point of 32°F and a boiling point of 212°F.
fatAs energy nutrients, fats (also called lipids) provide energy to fuel the body when carbohydrates are not available. They also play an important role in nutrient absorption, insulation, and maintaining body temperature. Fat has a high caloric content, with 9 calories per gram, and should make up no more than 30% of the calories in a healthy diet.
filter needleA needle used to withdraw medication from an ampule that contains a filter inside to separate from the medication any glass fragments that occur as a result of breaking open the ampule.
fixed combination insulinA combination of basal and mealtime insulin premixed by the manufacturer, in one vial or cartridge.
fixed dosingMedication dosing applied to homogenous populations, such as average-sized adults.
fluid resuscitationThe administration of a large volume of intravenous fluid over a relatively short period of time; one of the most important aspects in managing care of patients experiencing hypovolemic shock.
formThe form of a drug refers to its composition, which may be solid, semisolid (such as creams or ointments), or liquid.
formula methodA simple way of calculating the amount of medication to administer; the supplied dose, ordered dose, and supplied dosage unit are placed into the formula to determine the amount to administer:
Equation reads, Ordered dose, D over supplied dose, H times dosage unit, Q equals amount to administer, x.
fractionRepresents a portion of the whole, written as two quantities: the numerator divided by the denominator.
fractional ratio-proportionCompares two equivalent fractions.
frequencyTime interval. As it relates to medication, the spacing or how often a medication is to be administered.
full strengthUndiluted. As it relates to liquid enteral formulas, the typical concentration used to meet normal needs.
gastrostomy tube A tube inserted directly through the abdomen into the stomach.
gaugeMeasure of the diameter of a needle. The larger the gauge, the narrower the needle (and lumen).
gelcapGelatin shells that usually contain liquid medication.
generic nameThe general name of a medication given by the manufacturer that first created the medication, but not specific to the manufacturer; the chemical name registered with the United States Pharmacopeia.
geriatricRefers to persons ages 65 years or older.
gramThe base unit of weight in the metric system.
H
hang time The time an enteral nutrition formula is considered safe for delivery to the patient at room temperature, beginning from the time when the formula was reconstituted, or decanted, or from the time when the original package seal was broken.
heparin lockA venous access device that is periodically flushed with heparin (a blood-thinning substance).
high-alert medicationsMedication that, if given erroneously, can result in serious harm and possibly death.
hospitalistDoctor who practices in a hospital.
household systemThe system of measurement currently used in the United States, originally derived from the apothecary system. It requires the measuring tools used for cooking (measuring cups and measuring spoons). The household system is the least accurate system of measurement and is not recommended for medication administration.
hypertonicA solution that has more particles than plasma; therefore, it produces a pressure gradient that causes fluid to move from the cells and interstitial spaces back into the vascular bed (circulatory system).
hypodermoclysisSubcutaneous infusion of fluids.
hypotonicA solution that has fewer particles than plasma, producing a pressure gradient that causes fluid to move from the vascular bed (circulatory system) into interstitial space and the cells.
hypovolemic shockA life-threatening condition in which 20% or more of the body's blood or fluid supply is lost.
I
implantable subcutaneous infusion port Internal central venous ports surgically placed below the clavicle with a catheter threaded through the subclavian vein, e.g., a Port-a-cath®.
improper fractionA fraction in which the numerator is greater than the denominator, so the value is greater than 1 (e.g.,
6 over 5.
), or the numerator is the same as the denominator, so the value is equivalent to 1 (e.g.,5 over 5.
).in-line filterA filter usually attached to a primary line of IV tubing meant to remove particulate matter, such as crystals, from the IV solution.
infiltrationSwelling at the insertion site that occurs when the IV cannula slips out of or pierces the vein, causing fluid to infuse into the surrounding tissue.
Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP)An organization whose sole mission is to prevent medication errors and promote safe medication administration.
insulin-to-carbohydrate ratioThe amount of carbohydrate disposed of by 1 unit of insulin.
insulin penA prefilled syringe used to administer insulin.
insulin pumpsSmall, portable continuous subcutaneous infusion devices that are attached to the patient, under the skin, and are designed to infuse insulin 24 hours a day.
insulin sensitivity factorThe dose of insulin required to decrease the blood glucose by 50 mg/dL, determined by the prescriber.
International System of Units (SI)Official name of the metric system.
international timeBased on 24 hours, not 12 hours, so each hour has a unique numerical representation. The day begins after 0000 and ends at 2400 (both of which represent midnight). Also known as military time.
international unitA measure of medication potency for the same medication between nations and manufacturers.
intradermalInto the dermis. An intradermal injection is inserted into the dermis (connective tissue within the skin) at a 10- to 15-degree angle; abbreviated ID.
intramuscularInto the muscle. An intramuscular injection is injected directly into a muscle at a 90-degree angle; abbreviated IM.
intravenousInto the vein. An intravenous injection is administered directly into a vein; abbreviated IV.
intravenous piggyback (IVPB)Medications in mini-bags that are connected (piggybacked) to the primary IV line through secondary (short) tubing.
isotonicUsed to expand intravascular volume, these solutions have the same osmolarity as plasma. Therefore, they do not promote the shift of fluid into or out of cells, and the IV solution remains in the blood vessels longer than maintenance fluids.
IV flushA small volume of IV fluid, 10–15 mL, needed to clear the medication from the IV tubing and deliver it completely into the patient's vein.
IV push/bolus medicationMedications that can be directly injected with a syringe into a vein through an IV port; does not require further dilution in an IV bag.
IV syringe pumpsAn equipment used to deliver small, precise volumes of fluid, with or without medication, over a specified period of time and to administer intermittent IV medications.
J
jejunal tube A tube inserted directly though the abdomen into the jejunum.
The Joint Commission (TJC) An organization whose mission is to improve health care by evaluating healthcare organizations for their compliance with federal regulations.
K
KVO An acronym meaning "keep vein open," it refers to a very slow rate used to maintain an IV; also called a TKO ("to keep open") rate. Generally 20 or 30 mL/h for adult patients, 5–10 mL/h for pediatric patients.
L
leading ring The side of the black rubber tip on a plunger for a syringe that is closest to the needle.
leading zeroZero in front of a "naked" decimal point, one that has no whole number preceding it, e.g., write 0.2, not .2.
licensed independent practitioner (LIP)Licensed healthcare professionals that have prescriptive authority, the legal right to prescribe medication, granted by the state in which they are licensed; also called prescribers.
linear ratio-proportionCompares two equivalent ratios.
lipidAs energy nutrients, lipids (also known as fats) provide energy to fuel the body when carbohydrates are not available. They also play an important role in nutrient absorption, insulation, and maintaining body temperature.
literThe base unit of volume in the metric system.
loading doseAn initial bolus dose given to achieve a therapeutic blood level.
lot numberA number on a medication identifying the batch and manufacturing plant. It helps to track medication made in the same lot, enabling them to be recalled if there is a problem with the medication.
low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)A type of heparin (an anticoagulant that decreases blood clot formation) that has small molecules.
lumenA channel through which fluids infuse, e.g., the lumen of a needle. The higher the gauge, the smaller the lumen.
M
maintenance fluids Fluids that are given to maintain normal levels of fluid and electrolytes.
maximum concentrationUses the least amount of diluent; also called minimum dilution. Usually indicated for administration routes requiring smaller volumes, such as IM.
maximum dilutionUses the greatest amount of diluent; also called minimum concentration. Usually indicated for administration routes that could accommodate larger volumes, such as the IV route.
mealtime insulinFaster-acting insulin that provides short-term coverage for the anticipated insulin requirement associated with food intake. Also includes correctional insulin dose (faster-acting insulin used to correct an existing high blood glucose level).
medication administration record (MAR)Legal records that contain the same information as the medication order with the addition of the specified times for medication administration.
medicine cupAn open, plastic container used to administer liquid oral medications, usually marked with household and metric calibrations.
meniscusA concave curve in the upper surface of a liquid poured into an open container (due to the surface tension between the liquid and the container).
metabolismChemical transformation within cells. The transformation of a drug or food into chemicals used by the body.
meterThe base unit of length in the metric system.
metric systemThe preferred system of measurement used in health care. It includes three base units of measurement: liter (volume), gram (weight), and meter (length). The metric system uses powers of 10 and amounts are written as whole numbers or decimals.
military timeBased on 24 hours, not 12 hours, so each hour has a unique numerical representation. The day begins after 0000 and ends at 2400 (both of which represent midnight). Also known as international time.
milliequivalentA measurement of chemical activity, not molecular weight. It is used to measure the combining power of ions. Electrolytes such as potassium are measured using milliequivalents.
minimum concentrationUses the greatest amount of diluent; also called maximum dilution. Usually indicated for administration routes that can accommodate larger volumes, such as IV
minimum dilutionUses the least amount of diluent; also called maximum concentration. Usually indicated for administration routes that require smaller volumes, such as the IM route.
mixed numberA whole number and a fraction (e.g., 1
3 over 5.
).multiple doseA multiple-dose package contains enough medication for more than one dose; also called a multiple-use package. Medications in these containers have preservatives, if necessary, to ensure that each dose is safe to administer.
N
nasogastric tube A tube inserted through the nose into the gastric (stomach) region.
nasojejunal tubeA tube inserted through the nose into the jejunum (the middle section of the small intestine).
National Drug Code (NDC)A number that is a universal product identifier for human drugs, also known as a control number. All medications and compounds manufactured for public distribution are registered with the FDA and given a three-part numeric code that is unique to the medication.
net weightRefers to the total amount of the medication form within the dosage container (not the dosage strength).
neuromuscular blocking agentParalytic medications.
numeratorThe part of a fraction that indicates the portion (number of parts) of a whole quantity; the number above the division sign in a fraction.
nutrient denseFoods that are rich in nutrients but low in calories.
O
onset Starting point. After administering a medication, the length of time before the medication begins to take effect. In terms of insulin, the length of time it takes for the insulin to start lowering blood glucose.
oral syringeA syringe used to administer liquid medication, it is available in two sizes: 5 and 10 mL. It is calibrated in tenths of a milliliter and fractional teaspoon measurements. Oral syringes are designed with features that differentiate them from syringes used for injections, such as labeling and off-center tips.
osmolalityThe number of particles (osmoles) in a kilogram of fluid; used to refer to body fluids because they are often measured by weight.
osmolarityThe number of particles (osmoles) in a liter of fluid; used to refer to infusion fluids because they are measured by volume.
oxytocicMedication used to induce and strengthen uterine contractions.
P
parenteral Outside the digestive tract; parenteral medication enter the bloodstream without first entering the intestines. Generally understood to mean injection routes.
patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumpA device that allows the patient to self-administer intravenous pain medication with the press of a button.
peakHighest point. After administering a medication, the point in time at which the medication is most effective. In terms of insulin, the time at which the insulin has its maximum effect.
pediatricRefers to children from birth to the age of 18 years.
percent daily value (%DV)A percentage in one serving of a particular product that contributes to the recommended daily intake of a nutrient.
peripheral venous catheterA small, flexible tube that is inserted over a needle into the vein, after which the needle is withdrawn.
peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lineLong central venous lines inserted into an arm vein and threaded into a central vein.
pharmacokineticsThe study of how drugs move through the body or the study of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
phlebitisInflammation of the vein caused by the IV fluids and/or additives, producing redness, swelling, and warmth surrounding the insertion site.
polypharmacyReferring to multiple medications taken by one patient, polypharmacy increases the chances of drugs interacting or interfering with one another, which may minimize the intended effect of a drug while increasing its side effects.
portAn entry to the intravenous catheter through which an IV infusion or syringe is attached.
prehydrationTo prevent dehydration, fluids may be infused in advance of an event that causes dehydration, such as chemotherapy.
prescriptive authorityThe legal right to prescribe medication.
primary lineThe main IV tubing for an IV infusion.
primeClearing the air from IV tubing by running a solution of IV fluid through it, according to manufacturer instructions found on the tubing packaging.
proper fractionA fraction where the numerator is less that the denominator, so the value is less than 1 (e.g.,
3 over 5.
).proteinNutrient made up of amino acids, found in foods such as meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, eggs, and many plant-based foods. Proteins perform many functions in the body, including building and repairing tissue.
proximal portAn injection port closest to the insertion site used for the administration of medications that can be directly injected (i.e., IV bolus medications).
Q
quotient The result of division, when the dividend is divided by the divisor.
R
reconstitution The process of reforming/transforming (changing the form of) a medication (e.g., liquefying a powdered medication).
replacement fluidsFluids infused into a patient to replenish fluid volume and rehydrate the patient after an event, such as surgery, or an episode of sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or hemorrhage.
routeThe path by which medication enters the body, named by the entry point.
S
safe dose range (SDR) The quantity between a calculated minimum safe dose and a maximum safe dose.
saline lockIV device that is periodically flushed with normal saline to maintain patency, provides access for intermittent infusion therapy.
scoredLinear indentations on tablets or caplets that facilitate dividing the dose in halves or quarters as marked.
secondary lineIV tubing used for the infusion of intravenous piggyback medications.
simple carbohydrateNutrient that elevates blood sugar quickly; sugars that are found in foods such as fruits, milk, sugar, honey, and corn syrup.
single doseA single-dose container is made for just one use, with the capacity to hold enough medication for a typical single dose.
single useAlso called a single-dose container, a single-use container is made for just one use, with the capacity to hold enough medication for a typical single dose.
smart pumpA computerized infusion pump equipped with medication error–prevention software that alarms when infusion settings exceed best practice guidelines.
soluteThe substance that is dissolved in a solution.
solventA product that dilutes or dissolves a solute; also call diluent.
souffle cupA small paper or plastic cup used to administer solid oral medication.
spansuleTimed-release capsules containing tiny beads of medicine that dissolve at spaced intervals designed for long-acting medications.
strengthDosage strength; the concentration of a medication, which is the amount of medication per dosage unit.
subcutaneousInjection route located below all of the layers of the skin (fat, adipose tissue).
sublingualRoute of medication administration requiring placement of medication under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.
subtrahendNumbers involved in subtraction.
supply/supply dosage/supply doseDosage strength, the amount of medication in each dosage unit (e.g., 325 mg per tablet, 80 mg per mL, 200 mcg per metered spray).
supply volumeAmount of the fluid (volume) that contains the supply dose, e.g. in a dosage strength of 160 mg/5 mL, 5 mL is the supply volume.
suppositoryA solid, bullet-shaped medication, usually composed of glycerin, that is design for easy insertion into the rectum or vagina.
suspensionA liquid that contains fine particles of a drug that cannot be dissolved and must be stirred or shaken prior to administration to evenly disperse the particles.
sustained-release capsulesTimed-release capsules that contain tiny beads of medicine that dissolve at spaced intervals designed for long-acting medications.
syringe pumpA small-volume infusion device that delivers fluids and medications directly from a syringe; often used in pediatric and critical care settings.
syrupA liquid that contains water, concentrated sugar, and dissolved medication (e.g., cough syrup).
T
tabletCompressed powdered medications available in a variety of types, shapes, and sizes.
time-critical medicationsMedications for which early or late administration may result in harm for patients; determined by each healthcare institution. Examples include hormones, antibiotics, and cardiac medications.
time tapeA strip of tape attached to an IV container on which the nurse marks start time, fluid intervals, and end time.
titrateTo adjust a continuous IV infusion dosage to achieve the desired effect.
TKOAn acronym meaning "to keep open," it refers to a very slow rate used to maintain an IV; also called a KVO ("keep vein open") rate.
tonicityAlso known as osmolality, which is the number of particles (osmoles) in a kilogram of fluid.
total mealtime bolus doseThe total number of insulin units to administer as the bolus dose.
total numberRefers to the total amount of the medication form within the container (not the dosage strength).
total parenteral nutrition (TPN)A means of nourishing a patient intravenously, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. Due to its high concentration, TPN must be infused through large, central veins.
total volumeRefers to the total amount of the medication form within the container (not the dosage strength).
trade nameAlso called a brand name, it is the name that the manufacturer gives a medication to identify it as made by the manufacturer. The name is registered with the U.S. Department of Commerce so that no other pharmaceutical company can use the same name. Common practice is to capitalize a trade name, while the generic name is usually in lowercase letters.
traditional timeMeasuring time using a 12-hour clock that repeats, at the meridian, to account for 24 hours of the day. The day begins at midnight (12:00 a.m.) and the second 12 hours begin at noon (12:00 p.m.).
trailing ringThe side of the black rubber tip on a plunger for a syringe that is farthest from the needle.
trailing zeroZero after a decimal point, which will be omitted while writing, e.g., write 3.5, not 3.50.
transcriptionThe process of copying or entering orders onto the MAR or eMAR, includes the assignments of times for administration.
U-100 Signifies an insulin concentration of 100 units per 1 mL.
U-500Signifies a regular insulin concentration of 500 units per 1 mL.
unfractionated heparin (UH)A type of heparin (an anticoagulant that decreases blood clot formation) that has large molecules.
unit doseUnit dose packages of medications contain enough medication for one dose.
United States Pharmacopeia (USP)A U.S. government agency that sets standards for medicines.
United States Pharmacopeia—National Formulary (USP-NF)A book that contains standards for medicines, dosage forms, drug substances, excipients (inactive substances), medical devices, and dietary supplements.
United States Pharmacopeia units (USP units)A measure of medication potency for the same medication, standardized between manufacturers and determined by the United States Pharmacopeia.
universal solventWater is called the universal solvent because it is the most commonly used solvent to dilute solutions.
V
vascular access device (VAD) Also known as a venous access device, device used to infuse intravenous fluids through a peripheral vein or central vein.
vasoactiveA medication that dilates or constricts blood vessels.
venous access deviceSee vascular access device (VAD).
verbal/telephone orderA prescription order given orally instead of via documentation.
vesicantA chemical that causes blistering or tissue necrosis with extravasation (leakage from IV cannula into the surrounding tissue).
vialA multiple- or single-dose container of powdered or liquid medication with a rubber stopper on top.
viscosityThe thickness of a solution.
volume-control setsA safety device with a maximum capacity of 150 mL that is inserted between the IV bag and the infusion pump to prevent accidental fluid overload due to programming error or pump malfunction; also called burette, Buretrol, or VOLU-trol.
W
warning A label put on medication to protect the patient from medication administration errors.
weight-based dosingDrug dosing based on body weight.
weight-based heparin protocolA set of weight-based IV heparin orders that call for changes in rate or additional IV bolus doses based on the patient's aPTT (how long it takes for a patient's blood to clot).
workaroundsOmitted or unauthorized steps in the bar code medication administration process, which can put patients at risk for medication errors.
World Health Organization (WHO)A United Nations institute that is concerned with public health.
Y
Y-tubing Special tubing that has two spikes that are y-connected to pierce two solution containers.
Z
zero calibration The measurement point at the beginning of a syringe barrel.