AC stands for which instruction in medical orders?

AC stands for which instruction in medical orders?

• A. After meals
• B. Before meals
• C. With meals
• D. Without meals

Answer: (B)

Timing of medication administration is often indicated in orders. AC means ante cibum, which is Latin for before meals. This instruction tells you to give the medication on an empty stomach or prior to eating, which helps ensure proper absorption or avoid food interactions that could reduce effectiveness. If a drug should be taken after meals or with meals, different indicators are used, so AC specifically points to taking the dose before eating. In practice, you may administer AC a set amount of time before the meal (often about 30 minutes), depending on the medication and the facility’s policy.

Timing of medication administration is often indicated in orders. AC means ante cibum, which is Latin for before meals. This instruction tells you to give the medication on an empty stomach or prior to eating, which helps ensure proper absorption or avoid food interactions that could reduce effectiveness. If a drug should be taken after meals or with meals, different indicators are used, so AC specifically points to taking the dose before eating. In practice, you may administer AC a set amount of time before the meal (often about 30 minutes), depending on the medication and the facility’s policy.