What does 'PO' indicate regarding medication administration?

The abbreviation 'PO' stands for "per os," which is a Latin term meaning "by mouth." In the context of medication administration, this indicates that the medication should be taken orally. This route is one of the most common methods of administering medications because it is non-invasive and generally convenient for patients. Medications given by this route are designed to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, making it essential for the pharmacy technician to understand when to use this route versus others like injections or intravenous administration. This knowledge ensures that medications are administered safely and effectively, aligning with the patient's treatment plan.