What does 'OD' indicate in medical notation?

In medical notation, 'OD' typically stands for 'once daily,' which indicates that a medication is to be administered one time every day. This abbreviation is crucial for healthcare providers to convey dosing schedules clearly and efficiently, ensuring that patients receive their medications at the appropriate intervals for optimal effectiveness.

The use of abbreviations in medical practice enhances communication among healthcare professionals and prevents errors related to administration frequency. While 'OD' can also mean 'right eye' in a different context, especially in ophthalmology, its primary and more common interpretation in medication administration is 'once daily.' Understanding these abbreviations is vital for medication aides to ensure proper medication management and patient safety.