Which of the following is NOT included in the Joint Commission's "do not use" list?

The correct choice indicates that "Prn," or "as needed," is not included in the Joint Commission's "do not use" list. The Joint Commission established this list to improve patient safety by avoiding misunderstandings that can arise from certain abbreviations and terms.

"Prn" is widely understood and utilized in clinical settings to communicate that a medication should be administered only when necessary, making it clear to healthcare providers and patients alike. It helps to ensure that the context of the situation is conveyed and minimizes the potential for error that might arise from ambiguous acronyms.

In contrast, the other options—such as "Npo" (nothing by mouth), "U" (units), and "Qd" (every day)—are included on the "do not use" list due to the risk of misinterpretation. For example, "U" can easily be mistaken for the number zero, leading to dangerous dosing errors. "Qd" can be misread as "qd" if not properly written, resulting in potentially severe medication miscommunication. Lastly, "Npo" can lead to confusion if not clearly spelled out, as patients may not fully understand its implication.

Thus, "Prn" maintains clarity and is favorably recognized