PTCB Prescription Order Entry & Processing 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the abbreviation 'sig' mean on a prescription?
- Signature (label instructions) (Correct answer)
- Strength in grams
- Supply interval guideline
- Scheduled injection guide
Correct answer: Signature (label instructions)
The sig (from Latin signatura) is the prescriber's directions to the patient about how to take the medication.
Question 2: What does 'DAW 1' on a prescription mean?
- Dispense as written — patient requests brand
- Dispense as written — prescriber requests brand, no substitution (Correct answer)
- Generic substitution allowed
- Substitution allowed — patient's request
Correct answer: Dispense as written — prescriber requests brand, no substitution
DAW 1 (Dispense As Written) code 1 means the prescriber mandates brand-name dispensing and no generic substitution is permitted.
Question 3: What information is NOT required on a valid prescription?
- Patient's name
- Prescriber's DEA number (for non-controlled drugs) (Correct answer)
- Drug name and strength
- Date written
Correct answer: Prescriber's DEA number (for non-controlled drugs)
A prescriber's DEA number is only required on prescriptions for controlled substances, not for non-controlled medications.
Question 4: What does the Latin abbreviation 'QID' mean?
- Every other day
- Four times a day (Correct answer)
- Every 12 hours
- Three times a day
Correct answer: Four times a day
QID (quater in die) means four times a day, typically every 6 hours.
Question 5: A patient brings in a prescription for 30 tablets with 3 refills. What is the total quantity authorized?
- 30 tablets
- 60 tablets
- 90 tablets
- 120 tablets (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 120 tablets
The original fill (30 tablets) plus 3 refills (3 × 30 = 90) equals 120 tablets total authorized.
Question 6: What does the abbreviation 'PRN' mean?
- Before meals
- As needed (Correct answer)
- At bedtime
- By mouth
Correct answer: As needed
PRN (pro re nata) means 'as needed,' indicating the medication should be taken only when a specific condition (e.g., pain) warrants it.
PTCB Prescription Order Entry & Processing 1
What does the abbreviation 'sig' mean on a prescription?