Master Canadian Nursing Abbreviations 2026 - Free Nursing Abbreviation Practice Questions and Study Guide

'po' denotes 'orally' in medical terminology. This is because in medical terminology, 'po' is an abbreviation for the Latin term 'per os' which translates to 'by mouth'. This means that a medication or substance should be taken through the mouth and swallowed in order to enter the digestive system. The other options, 'per orifice', 'prior onset', and 'pre operation' do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'po'. 'Per orifice' could refer to any opening in the body, not specifically the mouth. 'Prior onset' could refer to the order in which symptoms appear, not a method of intake. 'Pre operation' could refer to any action taken before a procedure, not specifically the taking of medication. Therefore, 'orally' or 'by mouth' is the most appropriate answer.