Which abbreviation should a pharmacy technician recognize as error-prone?

The abbreviation "qhs" stands for "quaque hora somni," which means "every bedtime." In a clinical setting, the potential for misunderstanding this abbreviation is significant, as the "q" could be easily confused with "Q" (which means "every") or "q8h" (every eight hours), leading to potentially dangerous medication errors.

The use of "qhs" is discouraged because it may lead to misinterpretation, particularly in relation to timing and frequency of dosing. Recognizing the context in which these abbreviations are used is crucial for maintaining patient safety. The Joint Commission and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) have both identified this abbreviation as error-prone, recommending that it be written out in full to avoid confusion.

In contrast, the other abbreviations—such as "ac" (before meals), "po" (by mouth), and "subcut" (subcutaneously)—while they might need careful attention, are not listed as high-risk for error in the same way that "qhs" is. Thus, "qhs" stands out as particularly notable in terms of potential errors in a pharmacy setting.