What it means
In vital signs, AP often means apical pulse, the heartbeat counted with a stethoscope over the apex of the heart. In imaging, AP means anteroposterior, an x-ray beam passing from front to back. In some nursing texts, AP means assistive personnel, staff such as nursing assistants. The setting tells you which is meant.
For the nurse
If the meaning is not clear, ask or write the full term.
Related terms
UAP
Unlicensed assistive personnel: trained workers without a nursing license, such as nursing assistants, who help with client care.
heart rate
How many times the heart beats per minute.
x-ray
A picture of the inside of the body made with a small dose of radiation; also called a radiograph.