What does the abbreviation "a.c." refer to in medication administration?

The abbreviation "a.c." stands for "ante cenam," which is Latin for "before meals." In the context of medication administration, it specifically indicates that the medication should be taken 30 minutes before a meal. This timing is crucial for certain medications that may work more effectively or have fewer side effects when taken on an empty stomach, influencing the way the body absorbs the medication.

Understanding this abbreviation is important for health care providers and medication aides to ensure that medications are administered properly and effectively, enhancing patient care and safety.