Assistive Medication Administration Personnel (AMAP) Practice Exam

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Study for the AMAP Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Prepare for your certification test with confidence!

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Which abbreviation indicates that medication can be taken as needed?

  1. p.c.

  2. a.c.

  3. ad lib

  4. h.s.

The correct answer is: ad lib

The abbreviation that indicates medication can be taken as needed is "ad lib." This term is derived from Latin, meaning "as desired" or "at one's pleasure." It is commonly used in medical settings to signify that a patient may take a medication whenever they feel it is necessary, rather than at set intervals. Understanding the context of the other abbreviations enhances the clarity of "ad lib." For instance, "p.c." stands for "post cibum," which means after meals, indicating a specific time of administration. "a.c." refers to "ante cibum," meaning before meals, and also specifies a time frame for taking medication. "h.s." is an abbreviation for "hora somni," which translates to "at bedtime," indicating a fixed time for medication administration. All of these terms reference defined schedules, while "ad lib" explicitly allows for a more flexible approach based on individual need.