In a medical context, QHS is an abbreviation that stands for "every bedtime." It is derived from the Latin phrase quaque hora somni, which literally translates to "at every hour of sleep."
Understanding QHS in Medical Prescriptions
Medical abbreviations like QHS are commonly used by healthcare professionals on prescriptions and in patient charts to provide clear and concise instructions regarding medication dosage and timing. When you see QHS written on a prescription, it means the medication should be taken once daily, specifically before going to sleep.
Common Medical Abbreviations Related to Timing:
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Latin Origin |
|---|---|---|
| QHS | Every bedtime | quaque hora somni |
| BID | Twice a day | bis in die |
| TID | Three times a day | ter in die |
| QID | Four times a day | quater in die |
| PRN | As needed | pro re nata |
| STAT | Immediately | statim |
Practical Application
For example, if a prescription reads "Take 1 tablet QHS," it instructs the patient to take one tablet once a day, specifically at bedtime. This timing is often crucial for medications that:
- Cause drowsiness or sedation (e.g., certain antihistamines, sleep aids).
- Work best when taken overnight (e.g., some cholesterol-lowering drugs).
- Are designed to control symptoms that primarily occur during sleep (e.g., nocturnal heartburn medications).
Understanding these abbreviations ensures that patients administer their medications correctly, optimizing treatment effectiveness and minimizing potential side effects.
