Archives: Abbreviations

NAD stands for No acute distress / No abnormality detected. What does NAD mean? The patient appears comfortable; or no abnormality found. When is NAD used? Meaning depends on context in documentation.

WNL stands for Within normal limits. What does WNL mean? A result or finding is within the normal range. When is WNL used? Documented when assessments show no abnormality.

ASAP stands for As soon as possible. What does ASAP mean? To be done quickly, though less urgent than STAT. When is ASAP used? Used for orders needing prompt but not immediate action.

ABX stands for Antibiotics. What does ABX mean? Medications used to treat bacterial infections. When is ABX used? Prescribed for confirmed or suspected bacterial illness.

DNR stands for Do not resuscitate. What does DNR mean? An order not to perform CPR if the heart or breathing stops. When is DNR used? A documented advance decision about resuscitation.

ADL stands for Activities of daily living. What does ADL mean? Basic self-care tasks such as eating, bathing, and dressing. When is ADL used? Assessed to determine a patient's functional independence.

MRI stands for Magnetic resonance imaging. What does MRI mean? Detailed imaging using magnetic fields, no radiation. When is MRI used? Excellent for soft tissue, brain, and joints.

CT stands for Computed tomography. What does CT mean? A detailed cross-sectional imaging scan using X-rays. When is CT used? Used for many diagnoses across the body.

CXR stands for Chest X-ray. What does CXR mean? A radiographic image of the chest. When is CXR used? Used to assess lungs, heart, and chest structures.

SpO2 stands for Oxygen saturation. What does SpO2 mean? The percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen. When is SpO2 used? Measured by pulse oximetry; normal is about 95-100%.