Which abbreviation indicates to administer a dose immediately?

The abbreviation that indicates to administer a dose immediately is "stat." This term is derived from the Latin phrase "statim," which means "immediately" or "at once." It is commonly used in medical settings to signal urgency and the need for prompt action, particularly in situations where time is critical for patient care. For example, if a nurse receives an order to give a medication "stat," this directs them to prioritize that administration without delay.

In contrast, the other abbreviations have different meanings. "hs" stands for "hora somni," which means "at bedtime," indicating when a medication should be taken but not suggesting any urgency. "q4" refers to administering a medication every four hours, which outlines a schedule rather than indicating immediacy. Likewise, "qpm" means "every evening" or "every night," also conveying routine rather than urgent administration. Understanding these distinctions is vital for accurate communication in medication management and patient care.