The abbreviation HS comes from the Latin phrase “hora somni,” which means “at bedtime.”
In medical instructions, HS is used to indicate that a medication should be taken once a day before going to sleep.
HS Medical Abbreviation: How Is It Used in English?
HS is widely used in prescriptions, pharmacist instructions, and medical records. Below are some examples of how it appears in real-life medical communication.
In Prescriptions
Doctors write HS in prescriptions to indicate the correct timing for medication.
Example from a prescription:
- Take one tablet HS for better sleep.
- Apply the ointment HS to relieve nighttime itching.
This means the medication should be taken or applied once each night before bedtime.
In Medical Instructions for Patients
Pharmacists and healthcare providers often explain HS when giving medication guidance.
Example in a spoken conversation:
Pharmacist: “This medication should be taken HS, meaning once at bedtime.”
Patient: “Should I take it with food?”
Pharmacist: “Not necessarily. Just take it right before sleep as prescribed.”
In Hospital Charts and Nursing Notes
HS is also recorded in medical notes and hospital charts to ensure proper medication administration.
Example from a hospital chart:
- Medication: Antihistamine 10 mg
- Dosage: 1 tablet HS for allergy relief
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 HS
HS 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 |
| HS | Hora somni | At bedtime |
How HS Appears in Different Contexts
| Context | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Prescription Label | Take one capsule HS with water. |
| Doctor’s Instructions | Your medication is HS, so take it at bedtime. |
| Hospital Records | Patient prescribed sedative HS for better sleep. |
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.