Which option indicates the frequency meaning 'every'?

Which option indicates the frequency meaning 'every'?

• A. q
• B. Ad Lib
• C. prn
• D. q.d.

Answer: (A)

In dosing shorthand, the letter q comes from the Latin quaque, meaning “every.” It indicates the medication should be given at regular, repeating intervals, without specifying the exact unit of time. This makes it the general way to express the idea of “every” in a schedule. The other terms don’t convey that general sense. Ad Lib means “as desired,” used when administration is at the discretion of the caregiver or patient. prn means “as needed,” used for symptoms or conditions that aren’t required on a fixed schedule. q.d. stands for “quaque die,” or “every day,” which is a specific daily interval rather than the broad concept of “every” at any interval.

In dosing shorthand, the letter q comes from the Latin quaque, meaning “every.” It indicates the medication should be given at regular, repeating intervals, without specifying the exact unit of time. This makes it the general way to express the idea of “every” in a schedule.

The other terms don’t convey that general sense. Ad Lib means “as desired,” used when administration is at the discretion of the caregiver or patient. prn means “as needed,” used for symptoms or conditions that aren’t required on a fixed schedule. q.d. stands for “quaque die,” or “every day,” which is a specific daily interval rather than the broad concept of “every” at any interval.