What it means
In drug orders, AD comes from the Latin auris dextra, right ear. It is easy to misread as OD (right eye), so ear drops can end up in an eye. ISMP lists AD, AS (left ear) and AU (each ear) as error-prone and advises writing "right ear", "left ear" or "each ear" in full. In other notes AD may mean Alzheimer diseaseAHLTS-hy-mer dih-ZEEZA brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking and the ability to do everyday tasks.Full entry or advance directivead-VANS dih-REK-tivA legal document in which a person states their wishes for medical care, for a time when they cannot speak for themselves.Full entry , so the meaning has to come from the context.
For the nurse
Do not write AD in orders or records. If an order uses it, check the intended route with the prescriber before giving the drug.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | AS (left ear) and AU (each ear) are on the same ISMP list |
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Related terms
Alzheimer disease
A brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking and the ability to do everyday tasks.
advance directive
A legal document in which a person states their wishes for medical care, for a time when they cannot speak for themselves.