Which term would you use for a medication that is administered orally?

The term used for a medication that is administered orally is "PO," which stands for "per os," a Latin phrase meaning "by mouth." This designation indicates that the medication is taken through the mouth and typically absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract.

Understanding the terminology associated with different routes of medication administration is important in healthcare to ensure proper communication and administration of drugs. Other terms listed refer to different methods: “SL” stands for sublingual, indicating that the medication is placed under the tongue; “PR” refers to rectal administration; and “NPO” means "nil per os," which indicates that a patient should not take anything by mouth, typically in preparation for surgery or certain medical procedures. Recognizing these distinctions helps professionals select the appropriate route based on a patient's needs and circumstances.