The abbreviation QHS comes from the Latin phrase “quaque hora somni,” which translates to “every night at bedtime.”
In medical prescriptions and healthcare instructions, QHS is used to indicate that a medication should be taken once a day before sleeping.
QHS Medical Abbreviation: How Is It Used in English?
QHS is most commonly found in prescriptions, hospital notes, and pharmacist instructions. Below are some examples of how it appears in real-life medical communication.
In Prescriptions
Doctors use QHS to specify that a medication should be taken at bedtime.
Example from a prescription:
- Take one tablet QHS to help with sleep.
- Apply the cream QHS for nighttime relief.
This means the medicine should be taken once each night, right before going to sleep.
In Medical Instructions for Patients
Pharmacists and healthcare providers often explain QHS when giving medication guidance.
Example in a spoken conversation:
Pharmacist: “Your medication is QHS, which means take one tablet every night before bed.”
Patient: “Should I take it with food?”
Pharmacist: “It depends on the medication. Follow your doctor’s instructions.”
In Hospital Charts and Nursing Notes
QHS is also recorded in medical notes and hospital charts to ensure proper medication schedules.
Example from a hospital chart:
- Medication: Melatonin 5 mg
- Dosage: 1 capsule QHS for sleep regulation
This tells the hospital staff that the medication should be administered at bedtime.
Other Medical Abbreviations
Medical Abbreviation NPO
CVA Medical Abbreviation
QID Medical Abbreviation
TID Medical Abbreviation
CAD Medical Abbreviation
CHF Medical Abbreviation
HTN Medical Abbreviation
Medical Abbreviation QD
Common Medical Abbreviations Similar to QHS
QHS is part of a group of abbreviations that indicate when a medication should be taken. Here are some related terms:
| Abbreviation | Full Form | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| QD | Quaque die | Once a day |
| BID | Bis in die | Twice a day |
| TID | Ter in die | Three times a day |
| QHS | Quaque hora somni | Every night at bedtime |
How QHS Appears in Different Contexts
| Context | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Prescription Label | Take one capsule QHS with water. |
| Doctor’s Instructions | Your medication is QHS, so take it at bedtime. |
| Hospital Records | Patient prescribed melatonin QHS for sleep improvement. |
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is intended to help learners understand common medical abbreviations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any medical concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.