Introduction to Sig Codes and Routes of Administration in Pharmacy

Importance

• Sig Codes and Routes of Administration are crucial for safe and effective medication management in pharmacy settings.
• Sig Codes are abbreviated directions indicating how medications should be taken.
  • Understanding these ensures patients receive medication accurately as prescribed.
• Routes of Administration indicate how medications are introduced into the body, ensuring safe and efficient delivery.

Common Sig Codes

• AC: Before meals
  • Medication should be taken prior to eating.
• QID: Four times daily
  • Medication should be taken four times within a 24-hour period.
• ASAP: As soon as possible
  • Urgent administration of the medication is suggested.
• TI: Three times daily
  • Medication should be taken three times throughout the day.

Common Routes of Administration

• PO: By mouth
  • Medication taken orally.
• IM: Intramuscular
  • Medication injected into the muscle.
• PR: Rectally
  • Medication administered via the rectum.
• IV: Intravenous
  • Medication administered directly into the vein.

Application Practice

• Prescription Label Identification
  • Example: "PO" indicates the medication should be taken by mouth (orally).
  • "BID" indicates the medication is to be taken twice per day.

Conclusion

• Continual practice of Sig codes and routes of administration is essential in the pharmacy tech program.
• These concepts are foundational to ensuring that patients receive medications accurately, safely, and at the correct times.