What does the abbreviation "q.d." mean in a medication order?

The abbreviation "q.d." stands for "quaque die," which is Latin for "once a day." In the context of medication orders, this means that the medication should be administered once every day. This is essential for maintaining a consistent therapeutic level of the medication in the body over a 24-hour period. Understanding common medical abbreviations like "q.d." is vital for ensuring accurate medication administration and preventing dosing errors. This facilitates proper adherence to prescribed treatment regimens and helps in monitoring the effectiveness of the medication over time.